Towards rational design of power-law rheology via DNA nanostar networks

Abstract: We measure the rheology of transient hydrogels comprised of a single type of DNA nanostar that makes both strong and weak bonds. These gels exhibit power-law frequency-dependence of their storage and loss moduli, with scaling exponents that depend on the proportions of the two bonds. A diffusive stress-relaxation model, in which the strong-bond sub-network relieves stress by diffusing through an effective viscosity imposed by the weak bonds, explains the scaling of their moduli. The model has implications for the fractal dimensions of the strong-bond sub-network that are in good agreement with measurements and makes testable predictions for the viscoelasticity of other transient hydrogels. Overall, this work demonstrates the power of DNA nanotechnology to decipher, and potentially rationally design, power-law rheology.