Biological materials are self-assembled from the atomic level into complex hierarchical structures with optimized properties for their functions.  Incorporating ideas from these naturally formed structures in design enables the development of new materials with superior performance and functionality. In this study, we analyze the effect of the orientation of tubular structures inspired by equine hoofs. The hoofs have impressive impact resistance and fracture toughness, attributed to their complex composite and hierarchical structure. At mesoscale, the hoofs have long cylindrical structures called tubules which are surrounded by inter-tubular lamellar matrix. The shapes, dimensions, and distribution of these tubules vary across the hoof wall‚Äôs cross-section leading to functionally graded properties. In this analysis, we study the effect of tubular geometry, orientation, and volume fraction on mechanical properties.  We use a finite element analysis (FEA) to compute the stress distribution around the tubular structures of different cross-sections. In the FEA model, the tubules are modelled as cylindrical structures of circular and elliptical cross-sections. The major axis, minor axis, and the thickness of the elliptical shell are varied to simulate different cross-sections in the hoof. The orientation of the elements is also varied‚Äô corresponding to the orientations of lamellae observed in tubular materials. These results are compared with the experimental results. This study‚Äôs findings can be used as guide for designs of new impact resistant hoof-inspired materials and structures. 

Effect of tubular structures on mechanical properties of hoof-like materials

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