Discrete-symmetry-adapted Markov chain Monte Carlo for the electro-elasticity of polymers: chain taut, collapse, and order (opens in new tab)

Dielectric elastomers are promising for soft robotics and wearable electronics and sensors, but their use is hindered by the high electric fields required. Maximizing electromechanical coupling through molecular mechanisms is essential. However, progress on the role of dipole-dipole interactions between monomers has been limited, in part because the resulting energy landscapes, characterized by multiple symmetric wells separated by high barr...