Working with Randomness: A Perspective on Using Spatial Statistics to Engineer the Mechanics of Heterogenous Materials

The spatial arrangement of random heterogeneous materials such as concrete, rock, and polymer composites are often overlooked in the study of their mechanical properties. Here, a perspective is presented on how exploring the link between spatial statistics and mechanical properties can enable the design, manufacturing, and assessment of randomly structured materials. Examples highlight recent applications of these concepts in concrete research and the development of biological construction materials.