To validate these computational predictions, we conducted experimental studies by gradually stretching microwire arrays under microscopic observation at regular intervals (representative images in Fig. and Fig. ). The images taken can then be processed and analyzed to reveal microwire fracture patterns, as illustrated in Fig. (before fracture), Fig. (after fracture), and Fig. (processed image showing two distinct segments). The average number of cracks per microwire versus applied strain was quantified for different microwire orientations (Fig. ). Consistent with FEA predictions, microwire groups at smaller angles exhibited earlier and more frequent breakage. Fig. (A) FEA results of wires with different orientations when subjected to 40% strain. The colors in the wires represent the experienced von Mises stress. (B) Process flow used for the mechanical characterization of wires subjected to strain. i) example of a pristine wire at rest. ii) wire experiencing strain and breaking as a result thereof, iii) the processed image reveals the detection of 2 distinct segments, confirming the cracking of the wire (C) Average number of cracks per wire for each angle group, as a function of strain. Data points were taken every 5% strain. N = 5 to 18, depending on how many wires would fit in the field of view for a given angle and strain. (D) The critical strain at which each microwire first breaks, across all orientations. Each scattered dot represents a single wire breaking, and the violin plot shows the distribution. Since photographs were taken every 5% only, the dots are placed in the middle of the interval between the last strain without breakage and the interval at which breakage was noted, with an artificial jitter for visualization. Angles from 70°to 90°are not presented as no cracks were seen. Critical strain (%) Fig. (A) Example of a microwire array used for the parameter study. The gray arrows denote the strain direction. The four parameters (width, length, spacing width-wise and spacing length-wise) are described on the photograph. For each parameter study, one parameter was swept while the others were kept constant. (B) Average crack per wire for each length, (D) width, , (F) spacing length-wise, and (H) spacing width-wise, as a function of strain. Data points were taken every 4% strain. (C) The critical strain at which each microwire first breaks, across all lengths, (E) widths, (G) spacings length-wise, and (I) spacings width-wise. Each scattered dot represents a single wire breaking, and the violin plot shows the distribution. Since photographs were taken every 4% only, the dots are placed in the middle of the interval between the last strain without breakage and the interval at which breakage was noted, with an artificial jitter for visualization. For (B) N = 40 to 85 depending on how many wires would fit in the field of view at a given length and strain, for (D) N = 40 to 50, for (F) N = 25 to 50, for (H) N = 20 to 40.