Structure and Mechanics of Random Networks of Fiber Bundles Stabilized by Adhesion

Nanofibers self-organize under the action of strong adhesive forces. Examples of such systems are collagen networks in connective tissue, carbon nanotubes and nanoribbons, and polymeric electrospun nanofibers. Self-organization leads to the formation of fiber bundles which then assemble in networks of bundles with a cellular structure. In this work we study the self-organization process and classify the resulting structures, indicating the range of system parameters corresponding to each type of network. The mechanics of adhesion-stabilized networks of bundles is then studied and compared with the mechanical behavior of networks of equivalent density and fiber properties without adhesion. The presentation provides a comprehensive overview of the conditions of existence and properties of such systems.