Structure Modelling Based on Percolation Theory

The paper discusses the possibility of application of percolation theory to model the structure of materials in a virtual space. The designed models were transferred to real space using modern incremental manufacturing techniques like 3D printing. Studies of model materials of this type based on percolation theory are expected to provide more accurate knowledge of the problem, which is extremely important from the point of view of the properties of most construction materials. Reference of percolation phenomena to materials science is more and more frequently done in the design of various types of composite materials, such as e.g. conductive composites. In this study, the percolation theory has been used to design in microscale an optimum material through model analysis done in macroscale. Since studies of percolation in polycrystalline materials are difficult, and there are also some technical limitations imposed on the evaluation done in a volume of material, this phenomenon is usually examined in a simplified manner, which means that it is reduced only to statistical analysis of potential percolation with determination of its threshold value. To generate a potential structure based on percolation theory, popular computer programmes for solid modelling were used. Real shapes were conferred to the designed models using a widely known technique of 3D printing. It allows the production of parts in ABS material. The subject of the present study combines modern design techniques with modern manufacturing techniques, relating both to the fundamentals of materials science. Today's software tools enable creating more complex solids, while their transfer to reality allows better understanding of dependencies that exist in the structure of materials. The originality of this study consists in the art of creating new construction materials with planned properties. The article offers a new approach to the capabilities of scheduling modern engineering materials with the help of percolation theory