Interface considerations in the modelling of hierarchical biological structures

This chapter concerns property transitions between length scales in the hierarchical modeling of biological structures (biostructures). Biological materials are inherently complex, and mechanical properties such as toughness and fracture toughness are very often directly associated with the hierarchy of structure. At each length scale, there is an interface. Inclusion of the subtle effects each interface may have on both local and global properties into a model may give rise to more reliable model predictions. In this chapter, we briefly highlight the importance of interface considerations in the hierarchical modeling of biological structures. We consider the fundamentals of interface modeling from the atomistic level, through the molecular and the nano levels, and finish at the macro level of modeling. The understanding and application of justifiable interface conditions at every length scale are critical to the development of stable, fast-working, effective, yet accurate biomodels.