A simple model for the pore size distribution in random fibre networks

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Physical Chemistry
• Network Theory

Background:

• Understanding pore size distribution is critical for predicting material properties.
• Existing models often struggle with the complexities of random fiber networks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a heuristic model for pore size distribution in isotropic fiber networks.
• To account for the physical dimensions of fibers in the modeling.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing excluded volume arguments to develop a theoretical framework.
• Deriving analytically tractable expressions for pore size parameters.
• Analyzing the partition coefficient for tracer particles.

Main Results:

• The model provides accurate predictions across all fiber volume fractions.
• Mean and mean-squared pore radii are calculated as functions of volume fraction.
• Steric effects on tracer particle partitioning are quantified.

Conclusions:

• The developed heuristic approach offers a robust method for modeling pore size in fiber networks.
• The model's analytical tractability facilitates practical applications in materials design.