Abstract
Using theoretical considerations and MD simulation techniques, we show that the rupture strength of H-bond assemblies is governed by geometric confinement effects, suggesting that clusters of at most 3-4 H-bonds break concurrently, even under uniform shear loading of a much larger number of H-bonds. This universally valid result leads to an intrinsic strength limitation that suggests that shorter strands with less H-bonds achieve the highest shear strength. Our finding explains how the intrinsic strength limitation of H-bonds is overcome by the formation of a nanocomposite structure of H-bond clusters, thereby enabling the formation larger, much stronger beta-sheet structures. Our results explain recent experimental proteomics data, suggesting a correlation between the shear strength and the prevalence of beta-strand lengths in biology.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 13-18 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Materials Research Society Symposium Proceedings |
Volume | 1061 |
State | Published - Dec 1 2008 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Materials Science(all)
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechanics of Materials