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Image-based multiphysics modelling of random metallic meshes
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Image-based multiphysics modelling of random metallic meshes

Dimitrios Charaklias, Dayuan Qiang, Robert Dorey and Iman Mohagheghian
Scientific reports
28/07/2026

Abstract

Engineering Materials Science Physics
Bio-inspired conductive networks are increasingly exploited in transparent heaters and smart multifunctional structures due to their inherent scalability, robustness, and efficient transport properties, yet their intrinsic disorder poses major challenges for quantitative modelling. Here we introduce a computationally efficient, image-driven framework for the automated digitisation, reconstruction, and multiphysics analysis of random conductive meshes. High-resolution microscopy images are converted into graph-based network representations via skeletonization, branch tracking, and connectivity refinement, preserving local geometry while drastically reducing degrees of freedom. An analytical model is developed to predict sheet resistance directly from extracted network metrics, enabling rapid, non-destructive electrical characterisation. The digitised networks are further used to perform coupled electro-thermal and electro-thermo-mechanical finite-element simulations. Experimental validation using silver mesh heaters embedded in polymer laminates shows excellent agreement with predicted electrical resistance, temperature evolution, and stiffness modulation under electrical loading. The framework reduces analysis time and enables systematic assessment of structural features, such as dangling branches, on device performance. This approach provides a scalable route for predictive design and optimisation of fractal-based multifunctional electronic materials.
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Author's Accepted Manuscript Embargo until publication date CC BY V4.0
url
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-62432-3View
Journal website Open CC BY V4.0

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