This review presents the potential that lattice (or spring network) models hold for micromechanics applications. The models have their origin in the atomistic representations of matter on one hand, and in the truss-type systems in engineering on the other. The paper evolves by first giving a rather detailed presentation of one-dimensional and planar lattice models for classical continua. This is followed by a section on applications in mechanics of composites and key computational aspects. We then return to planar lattice models made of beams, which are a discrete counterpart of non-classical continua. The final two sections of the paper are devoted to issues of connectivity and rigidity of networks, and lattices of disordered (rather than periodic) topology. Spring network models offer an attractive alternative to finite element analyses of planar systems ranging from metals, composites, ceramics and polymers to functionally graded and granular materials, whereby a fiber network model of paper is treated in considerable detail. This review article contains 81 references.
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