The crumpled state: crumpling dynamics and the evolution of damage networks

Abstract:

The simple process of crumpling a sheet of paper with our hands results in a complex network of interconnected permanent creases of many sizes and orientations. Sheet preferentially bends along these creases, introducing history dependence to the process of crumpling.

I will present an experimental study of the dynamics of crumpling. Specifically, I will first discuss how a crease network evolves when a thin elastoplastic sheet is repeatedly crumpled, opened up and then re-crumpled. Is there a maximally crumpled state after which the flat sheet can be deformed without further plastic damage? If time permits I will also I'll discuss the crumpling of soda cans, focusing on our attempts to characterize their stability in the case where on single defect dominates buckling.