Optimization of mechanical properties of Ti–6Al–4V triply periodic minimal surface porous structures prepared by laser beam powder bed fusion technology based on orientation control

Abstract

Triply periodic minimum surface (TPMS) porous structures with large cavity ratios and excellent mechanical properties are highly desirable in engineering applications. This study proposes a method for optimizing the structural performance by controlling the orientation of unit cells based on three typical TPMS porous structures with similar porosity. Quasi-static compression tests were conducted on structures with different orientations to comprehensively investigate and verify their deformation behavior, mechanical properties, and energy absorption. The results showed that changing the orientation of unit cells was an effective way to improve the performance of Diamond, Gyroid, and Primitive porous structures, and even to achieve predictable failure behavior by optimizing the orientation of Diamond structures. The morphology of their fracture surfaces was characterized, and the mechanism of their mixed brittle and ductile deformation was identified. Overall, the findings of this work have significant implications for the future development and expansion of TPMS porous structures.