Multi-dimensional hybridized TPMS with high energy absorption capacity

Abstract

Lattice structures based on triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMSs) have received extensive research attention due to their lightweight, tremendously high ductility, and excellent energy absorption. In this study, the advantages of several types of TPMSs-based lattice structures were integrated by proposing a multi-dimensional hybrid design for the first time. Based on the P, IWP, and FRD structures, one-dimensional (1D), 2D, and 3D hybridizations were successfully achieved by using the Sigmoid function. The technique of powder bed fusion of metal using a laser beam (PBF–LB/M) was utilized to fabricate the designed TPMS structures with Al–Si10–Mg powder. Their mechanical properties under different loading directions were investigated both experimentally and numerically. The results demonstrate that the hybridization strategy effectively modifies the mechanical behaviour of the TPMS structures. When the hybridization direction aligns parallel to the compression direction, the hybrid structure exhibits greater specific energy absorption, while vertical alignment results in a higher Young's modulus. Notably, the 2D hybrid P–FRD structure possesses the most excellent mechanical properties under parallel compression. Moreover, the 1D and 2D hybrid structures exhibit superior specific energy absorption than the uniform structure, with maximum energy absorption of 45.02% and 52.81%, respectively. The proposed hybrid design strategies are expected to accelerate the application of energy-absorbing structures in practical engineering.