In-depth gaze at the astonishing mechanical behavior of bone: a review for designing bio-inspired hierarchical metamaterials

In this review paper, some relevant models, algorithms, and approaches conceived to describe the bone tissue mechanics and the remodeling process are showcased. Specifically, we briefly describe the hierarchical structure of the bone at different levels and underline the geometrical substructure characterizing the bone itself. The mechanical models adopted to describe the bone tissue at different levels of observation are introduced in their essential aspects. Furthermore, the modeling of the evolution, including the growth and resorption of bone, is treated by analyzing the main approaches employed, namely the mechanical feedback concept and the structural optimization perspective. In this regard, the most prominent ways to model the biomechanical stimulus are summarized. The modeling of the interaction with prostheses or grafts commonly used in reconstructive surgery is also recalled. The main aim of this survey consists thereby in providing the appropriate knowledge to mimic the deeply structured hierarchy of the bone tissue for synthesizing innovative and highly performing bio-inspired metamaterials.