Percolation of the Loss of Tension in an Infinite Triangular Lattice

We introduce a new class of bootstrap percolation models where the local rules are of a geometric nature as opposed to simple counts of standard bootstrap percolation. Our geometric bootstrap percolation comes from rigidity theory and convex geometry. We outline two percolation models: a Poisson model and a lattice model. Our Poisson model describes how defects—holes is one of the possible interpretations of these defects—imposed on a tensed membrane result in a redistribution or loss of tension in this membrane; the lattice model is motivated by applications of Hooke spring networks to problems in material sciences. An analysis of the Poisson model is given by Menshikov et al. (4) In the discrete set-up we consider regular and generic triangular lattices on the plane where each bond is removed with probability 1−p. The problem of the existence of tension on such lattice is solved by reducing it to a bootstrap percolation model where the set of local rules follows from the geometry of stresses. We show that both regular and perturbed lattices cannot support tension for any p < 1. Moreover, the complete relaxation of tension—as defined in Section 4— occurs in a finite time almost surely. Furthermore, we underline striking similarities in the properties of the Poisson and lattice models.