MODELS FOR MATERIAL FAILURE AND DEFORMATION

Simple computer models have been used to investigate a variety of pattern formation processes associated with material failure and deformation. These models reproduce surprisingly well the characteristic morphologies observed in a wide range of real systems. They provide a sound basis for the development of more realistic models that can be used to develop a better understanding of the mechanical properties of real materials. The present algorithms are adequate for some purposes, but substantial improvements are needed if simulation results are to make a major contribution to our theoretical understanding of the asymptotic fractal scaling and universality properties of patterns generated by failure and deformation phenomena.