A general tetrakaidecahedron model for open-celled foams

A micro-mechanics model for non-isotropic, open-celled foams is developed using an elongated tetrakaidecahedron (Kelvin model) as the repeating unit cell. Assuming the cell edges possess axial and bending rigidity, the mechanics of deformation of the elongated tetrakaidecahedron lead to a set of equations for the Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio and tensile strength of the foam in the principal material directions. These equations are written as a function of the cell edge lengths and cross-section properties, the inclination angle and the strength and stiffness of the solid material. This micro-mechanics model employs an elongated Kelvin model geometry which is more general than that employed by previous authors, as the size and shape of the repeating unit cell are defined by specifying three independent dimensions. As a result, the model accounts for an additional variation in the unit cell shape which is not accounted for in the previous models. The effect of this additional shape parameter on the non-isotropic stiffness and strength behavior is demonstrated and the advantages of this more general micro-mechanics model are illustrated.