journal article·2025-03Open access

Optimizing Biomimetic 3D Disordered Fibrous Network Structures for Lightweight, High‐Strength Materials via Deep Reinforcement Learning

Yunhao Yang, Runnan Bai, Wenli Gao, Leitao Cao, Jing Ren, Zhengzhong Shao, Shengjie Ling

Advanced Science· Volume 12· Issue 11

Abstract

Abstract 3D disordered fibrous network structures (3D‐DFNS), such as cytoskeletons, collagen matrices, and spider webs, exhibit remarkable material efficiency, lightweight properties, and mechanical adaptability. Despite their widespread in nature, the integration into engineered materials is limited by the lack of study on their complex architectures. This study addresses the challenge by investigating the structure‐property relationships and stability of biomimetic 3D‐DFNS using large datasets generated through procedural modeling, coarse‐grained molecular dynamics simulations, and machine learning. Based on these datasets, a network deep reinforcement learning (N‐DRL) framework is developed to optimize its stability, effectively balancing weight reduction with the maintenance of structural integrity. The results reveal a pronounced correlation between the total fiber length in 3D‐DFNS and its mechanical properties, where longer fibers enhance stress distribution and stability. Additionally, fiber orientation is also considered as a potential factor influencing stress growth values. Furthermore, the N‐DRL model demonstrates superior performance compared to traditional approaches in optimizing network stability while minimizing mass and computational cost. Structural integrity is significantly improved through the addition of triple junctions and the reduction of higher‐order nodes. In summary, this study leverages machine learning to optimize biomimetic 3D‐DFNS, providing novel insights into the design of lightweight, high‐strength materials.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Silk-based biomaterials and applications · Electrospun Nanofibers in Biomedical Applications · Cellular and Composite Structures

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

School of Physical Science and Technology ShanghaiTech University 393 Middle Huaxia Road Shanghai 201210 China

State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers Department of Macromolecular Science Fudan University Shanghai 200433 China

State Key Laboratory of Advanced Medical Materials and Devices ShanghaiTech University Shanghai 201210 China

Shanghai Clinical Research and Trial Center Shanghai 201210 China

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China

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