Design and optimization of Anisotropy–Inspired AlSi10Mg metamaterials with tailored mechanics and mass transport properties in tissue engineering

Abstract

Metamaterials are widely used for achieving tailored multi–physical properties. However, it is challenging to satisfy multiple property requirements simultaneously. For example, the mechanical and mass transport properties of bionic scaffolds have to be compromised. In this work, 3D–printed metamaterials with adjustable topological features are proposed, and a topological optimization strategy for coordinating multiple properties is developed. Tradeoffs between the mechanics, energy absorption capacity, and mass transport properties are accomplished under given a porosity. Anisotropic metamaterials with permeabilities of 2.34 ∼ 3.44 × 10-7 m2 and elastic moduli of 1.37 ∼ 3.14 GPa were obtained, and the gradient scaffolds were further designed to realize adjustable local characteristics. The optimized design technique described here can serve as an effective way to design more complex multilayered scaffolds with structural characteristics and biomechanical properties similar to those of natural tissue, so as to achieve an unprecedented level of tailoring multi–physics properties in tissue engineering, especially in the design of gradient scaffolds. Our study also represents advances in property decoupling, individual customization and collaborative design of metamaterials, which can be generalized to fluid and heat transport fields.