Kinematics and stress transfer in quasi-planar random fiber networks

The mechanics of paper is considered from the standpoint of fibre networks. It is shown that the classical model of paper, based on a network of infin itely long fibres capable of carrying only axial forces [1], having the geo metry of a Poisson line field, does not possess generic rigidity. This path ological behaviour can be removed by the introduction of rigid fibre-fibre bonds (justified by the presence of hydrogen bonding between cellulose fibr es) and fibre flexural stiffness. (C) 1999 Academie des sciences/Editions s cientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.