Geometric factors affecting Young's modulus of porous carbon with a three‐dimensional network structure

Three‐dimensional networked porous carbons (TNPCs) exhibit unique structures, and the relationship between the Young's modulus and relative density does not follow the conventional relational expression proposed by Gibson and Ashby. In this study, image analysis for TNPC models developed by reconstructing cross‐sectional images obtained via X‐ray computed tomography and focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy is conducted to extract the geometric factors of TNPCs, specifically, the strut length (L), struct thickness (t), diameter of the joints (dj), strut aspect ratio (L/t), and strut constriction ratio (dj/t). By evaluating these geometric factors, simple cubic three‐dimensional computer‐aided design (CAD) models, which reflect the geometric factors of TNPCs, are established to clarify the effect of these factors on the Young's modulus. The results indicate that L/t is the most effective geometric factor to determine the Young's modulus of TNPCs. The relationship between L/t and dj/t, obtained using the cubic CAD models, is in good agreement with that for TNPCs. Therefore, L/t and dj/t can help guide the design for the Young's modulus of porous materials.