On the load-bearing efficiency of open-cell foams: A comparison of two architectures related to two processes

Using a simple beam element, this study estimates the elastic stiffness of two isotropic open-cell foam architectures that approximate, respectively, the space between tightly packed fluid bubbles and that defined between densified solid particles, and finds little difference between the two microstructures above a relative density of a few per cent. (c) 2012 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.