Fracture Resistant Structures Based on Topological Interlocking with Non‐planar Contacts

Topological interlocking of elements based on matching of curved contact surfaces (see Figure) offers flexible structures highly tolerant to local failures. Unlike structures based on interlocking polyhedra, they form continuous layers to be used, e.g., for surface protection. The structures are especially promising with brittle materials, since in contrast to solid structures, failure of individual blocks does not lead to global failure.