Beam network model for fracture of materials with hierarchical microstructure

Abstract We introduce a beam network model for hierarchically patterned materials. In these materials, load-parallel gaps intercept stress transmission in the load perpendicular direction such manner that damage is confined within nested, load-carrying ‘modules’. describe morphological characteristics of materials terms deterministically constructed, hierarchical (DHBN) models and randomized variants thereof. then use to analyse process accumulation (characterized by locations timings breakages prior global failures, concomitant avalanche statistics) failure. demonstrate that, irrespective degree local disorder, failure (micro)structured characterized diffuse nucleation which ultimately percolates on network, but never stress-driven propagation critical crack. Failure non reference networks, other hand, sequence nucleation, crack formation propagation. These differences are apparent at low intermediate degrees material disorder disappear very strongly disordered where strengths exhibit extreme scatter. furthermore independent different modes lead significant fracture surface morphology.