Energy Absorption Research Articles

A novel hybrid bistable auxetic metamaterials with reusable geometric configuration for energy dissipation

PurposeReEntrant Honeycomb, characterized by its superior mechanical properties with energy absorption characteristics and tunability, presents promising applications for protective structures offering better stability. However, conventional designs fall short in terms of the reusability of these metamaterials. This study aims to investigate the impact of buckling strip configuration on energy absorption utilizing topological features instead of inelastic deformation, addressing a critical gap in the reusability of such materials. The research seeks new insights into modes of dissipation energy, contributing to a deeper understanding of the integrity of hybrid metamaterials.Design/methodology/approachA novel ReEntrant auxetic unit featuring a tunable bistable snap-through mechanism is proposed. After investigating three polymer types, the specimens are 3D printed for material characterization. The force deformation and energy dissipation correlations are attempted with a finite element-based numerical investigation approach.FindingsThe effect of simultaneous control for topological details was identified quantitatively in terms of components of the total energy absorbed and/or dissipated. The proposed re-entrant structures with optimized strip thickness and ReEntrant angle exhibited reasonably better energy dissipation because of the additional snapping energy.Originality/valueTraditional ReEntrant honeycomb dissipates energy imparted primarily by inelastic deformation. Here, the bistable snap-through mechanism in the present novel hybrid design is focused upon and is computationally investigated for minimal yielding. Hence, the shape is regained during elastic recovery only (without additional load). Such recovery, in turn, ensures the re-usability and post-deformation integrity of the designed unit.

Unveiling the flexural strength of corroded prestressed self compacting concrete beams enhanced with M-sand and polypropylene fibres

Prestressing steel corrosion is one of the barriers to the serviceability of prestressed concrete structures. The presence of aggressive environmental conditions leads to a reduction in the efficiency of the structures by degradation. Hence, untimely deterioration of the structures before completion of the expected service life is of great concern for engineers and researchers. The development of corrosion is faster and more severe in prestressed steel than in normal steel because of the high stress in prestressing steel. Therefore, a detailed investigation of the prestressed concrete structure under a corrosive environment is essential. This particular study focused on studying the corrosion effect on flexural behaviour of prestressed self compacting concrete beams made of M40 and M60 grade mixes using M-sand as fine aggregate, also with and without polypropylene fibre. The beam specimens were artificially corroded by the accelerated corrosion method, and the flexural strength of the corroded and non corroded prestressed concrete beam specimens were studied under four point bending method. The comparison study of prestressed concrete beams with and without polypropylene fibre showed that corrosion levels obtained in the corroded prestressed concrete beam specimens with fibre were less than the corroded prestressed concrete beam specimens without fibre at a constant period with a constant current. The corrosion levels obtained in M60 self compacting concrete were less than that of M40 self compacting concrete specimens. Also, corrosion of the strand reduced the cracking load, ultimate load, ultimate deflection, energy absorption capacity and stiffness of prestressed concrete beam specimens. The study concludes that the addition of polypropylene fibre to the self compacting concrete mixes improves the corrosion resistance of prestressed concrete beam and the flexural performance of the corroded prestressed concrete beam.

Experiment and numerical investigation on bio-inspired tube-plate hybrid lattice structure with dual-stress plateaus and enhanced energy absorption

ABSTRACT Lattice structures have drawn significant interest owing to their exceptional mechanical properties, e.g. lightweight, strong, and tough performance. Here, inspired by the biostructure of the beetle elytra, a new tube-plate hybrid lattice structure (TPHL) is proposed. The TPHL lattice specimens are fabricated by the selective laser melting (SLM) technique, and the compression mechanical properties are analysed. The compression responses of the TPHL are compared with conventional Octet (OCT), simple cubic (SC), and simple tube (TUBE) lattice structures. An optimisation model is developed to further improve the energy absorption characteristics. The TPHL lattice structure exhibits maximum 50.30% (relative density is 0.10) higher specific energy absorption (SEA) than SC pure plate lattice, and maximum 42.25% ( ρ ¯ = 0.18 ) higher specific energy absorption than OCT pure plate lattice. The novel lattice structure shows the transition of the deformation modes and dual energy-absorbing plateaus. The enhanced energy absorption is mainly ascribed to the interaction of the cross-assembled tubes and plates in the second plateau. Besides, the configuration of the TPHL lattice structure after optimisation demonstrates significantly enhanced energy absorption characteristics. The bioinspired design strategy and potential mechanical mechanism provide useful guidance for designing lattice structures with exceptional energy absorption properties.

The Effect of Industrial and Recycled Steel Fibers on the Behavior of Rubberized RC Columns Under Axial Loading

The use of recycled rubber particles, in the form of crumb rubber (CR), in concrete is gaining momentum due to its environmental benefits and potential for enhancing ductility. However, the strength degradation associated with CR incorporation remains a concern. This study investigates the compressive and axial behavior of reinforced concrete columns incorporating CR and hybrid steel fibers, comprising recycled steel fibers (RSFs) and copper-coated micro steel fibers (MSFs). Sixteen circular columns with varying CR contents (0–20%) and a constant fiber dosage (0.7% RSF and 0.3% MSF by volume) were cast and tested under axial compression. The results showed that CR reduced compressive strength, while the addition of hybrid fibers significantly improved strength, ductility, and energy absorption. Columns with up to 8% CR and fibers demonstrated comparable or superior load-bearing capacity to conventional concrete. Finite element modeling using ABAQUS software (Version 6.9) validated the experimental results, with numerical predictions closely matching load–displacement behavior and failure modes. This study highlights the potential of using CR and hybrid steel fibers in structural concrete to promote sustainability without compromising performance.

Impact resistance performance of seismic induced pre-damage G-UHPC beams

Engineering structures may be subjected to couple effects of multiple loads under extreme conditions. As a green and high performance concrete, using geopolymer based ultra-high performance concrete (G-UHPC) would reduce CO 2 emissions and improve engineering structure’s safety under extreme conditions. This study investigated the static and pseudo-static behaviors of G-UHPC beams, with a primary focus on the impact resistance characteristics of seismic induced pre-damaged G-UHPC beams. The results indicated that G-UHPC beams pre-damage by 130 kN and below exhibit similar effects on the impact performance, whereas pre-damage by 160 kN has a more significant impact on the impact performance of G-UHPC beams and even change their failure mode. G-UHPC beams with varying levels of pre-damage due to cyclic loading exhibit similar deflection recovery under identical impact loading conditions. With increasing levels of pre-damage from cyclic loading, G-UHPC beams exhibited a slightly stronger energy absorption effect. Finally, an empirical formula has been established to predict the residual deflection of seismic induced pre-damaged G-UHPC beams subjected to impact loading, which exhibits good agreement with experimental data.

Design and optimization of honeycomb structure in dual-link mechanism for revolving two-wing doors

This research puts forward a retractable dual-link mechanism to alleviate revolving two-wing doors collision risks. The mechanism is composed of three key parts: dual linkages, a base plate, and a connector. Through theoretical analysis and structural topology optimization with the goal of mass minimization, the existing constraints in traditional optimization methods that undermine structural integrity have been revealed. To resolve this issue, a trapezoid honeycomb structure has been designed as a substitute for the substrate. This design has achieved an 18.8% reduction in weight while preserving mechanical performance. Quasi-static compression tests and simulations have been employed to verify the energy absorption capacity and deformation characteristics of the honeycomb structure under significant impact loads. This comprehensive approach offers a novel solution for enhancing pedestrian safety.

Multifunctional strut-plate composite lattice metamaterial for integrated acoustic, energy, and vibration management

ABSTRACT In the pursuit of engineering solutions capable of managing persistent hazards such as noise, vibration, and structural impacts, materials that combine sound absorption, vibration damping, and deformation resistance are crucial. Lightweight lattice metamaterials have shown potentiality for these applications. These materials offer design flexibility but typically struggle to simultaneously excel in sound absorption, vibration control, and structural load-bearing. This work introduces a hollow truncated octahedron strut-plate (HTOSP) composite lattice metamaterial, employing additive manufacturing for prototype fabrication. Comprehensive validations were conducted through numerical simulations as well as impedance tube testing, with results aligning well. Adjustments in strut diameters and plate pore sizes enable the HTOSP to achieve impressive mid-high-frequency sound absorption coefficient and half-absorption bandwidth. The structural behaviour of HTOSP under load was explored through numerical simulations and quasi-static compression testing, revealing a high, stable plateau stress and specific energy absorption that peaks and then declines with increasing hollow-strut inner diameters. Furthermore, the HTOSP effectively dampens high-frequency vibrations, achieving –62 dB elastic wave attenuation at 3173 Hz via local resonance. This multifunctional HTOSP lattice metamaterial stands out for its superior performance in sound absorption, vibration control, and mechanical strength, presenting an intriguing paradigm for the design of multifunctional acoustic-mechanical-vibration structures.

Bulletproof properties and failure modes of multilayer fabrics of different materials

One of the ways to improve the protection ability of bulletproof vests is to optimize flexible fabrics. Therefore, understanding the energy absorption law of fabrics and exploring better protection structures is important. Taking aramid (Kevlar®29) plain woven fabric (areal density 90 g/m 2 ) and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) unidirectional (UD) fabric (areal density 120 g/m 2 ) as research objects, two types of single-material target plates and three types of two-material composite target plates are studied through ballistic tests. Five types of target plates are impacted by 8-mm steel balls at 200 m/s to analyze their energy absorption laws and failure modes. Research shows that due to the loose structure of UD cloth and less energy absorption. Under three areal density conditions of 360 g/m 2 , 720 g/m 2 , and 1080 g/m 2 , the energy absorbed by a single plain weave fabric target plate is 46.77%, 35.49%, and 30.07% higher than that of a single UD fabric target plate, respectively. In composite target plates, the target plate with plain weave fabric in front and UD fabric at the back has stronger protection than the reversed one, but is weaker than a single plain weave fabric target plate at the same areal density. At 720 g/m 2 areal density, the energy absorption of the three is 24.31 J, 22.83 J, and 30.68 J, respectively. The new hybrid composite fabric target (alternating layers of plain weave fabric and UD fabric) absorbs 33.46 J at 720 g/m 2 surface density. Due to the maximum damage degree of Kevlar fabric and UD fabric, the target plate shows the best protection effect.

Development of EPS light‐weight concrete for 3D printing

AbstractThis study investigates the feasibility of 3D printing lightweight concrete (LWC) incorporating expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads, with a focus on optimizing mechanical properties and flowability for 3D concrete printing (3DCP). The research addresses the need for printable, structurally viable lightweight materials by developing and testing LWC mixtures modified with EPS beads, evaluated through ASTM standard tests for compressive strength, flexural strength, flowability, and printability. Hardened densities ranging from 2213 to 752 kg/m3 were achieved, and results showed that while EPS reduces flowability, the addition of superplasticizers allows for improved printability. Variations in EPS volume replacement revealed critical insights: replacements above 60% led to substantial declines in paste cohesion and flowability, with higher EPS volumes (60%–70%) causing a lumpy, rubbery texture and resulting in densities lower than water, making samples float. Mixtures with higher EPS volumes demonstrated more ductile behavior and steady energy absorption without sudden failure, though at the expense of compressive strength, which dropped to 4.2 MPa for 50% EPS—a significant reduction from 23.6 MPa in standard concrete. Although printable up to 50% EPS, these mixtures require further optimization for general structural applications, positioning EPS‐based LWC as a promising material for specific 3DCP uses.

Insight into the Photoluminescence of Ba2Cd(BO3)2: RE3+ (RE = Dy, Tb) Phosphors.

Dy3+ and Tb3+ ions doped Ba2Cd(BO3)2 phosphors with varying concentrations (2, 3, 4, 5, 6 mol%) were produced via the solid-state synthesis method in air. The as-synthesized phosphors were characterized. The photoluminescence (PL) and photoluminescence excitation (PLE) spectra of Ba2Cd(BO3)2 phosphors doped with 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 mol% Dy3+ ions reveal four distinct emission bands in the blue, yellow, and red regions, with the 575nm emission band (4F9/2 → 6H13/2, electric dipole transition) exhibiting a notably higher intensity than the 481nm band (4F9/2 → 6H15/2, magnetic dipole transition). The optimal Dy3+ doping concentration was identified as 5 mol%, beyond which concentration quenching effects became apparent. Additionally, excitation and emission spectra of Ba2Cd(BO3)2 phosphors doped with 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 mol% Tb3+ ions demonstrate efficient energy absorption at approximately 225nm, with characteristic emission bands observed at 415, 436, 488, 544, 586, and 621nm, corresponding to the 5D3 → 7F5, 5D3 → 7F4, 5D4 → 7F6, 5D4 → 7F5, 5D4 → 7F4, and 5D4 → 7F3 transitions, respectively. The ideal concentrations for Dy3+ (5 mol%) and Tb3+ (6 mol%) in Ba2Cd(BO3)2 are identified at x = 0.3717, y = 0.4064, and x = 0.2902, y = 0.5344, respectively, as per the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) color spectrum, positioning Dy3+-doped phosphors within the yellow spectrum and Tb3+-doped phosphors within the green spectrum. These phosphors exhibit vibrant yellow and green luminescence, demonstrating their suitability as candidates for applications in these hues. They can be employed when stimulated by near-UV, UV, and blue laser diodes for WLEDs.

Quasi-Static Compressive Behavior and Energy Absorption Performance of Polyether Imide Auxetic Structures Made by Fused Deposition Modeling

Auxetic structures have garnered considerable interest for being lightweight and exhibiting superior properties such as an excellent energy absorption capability. In this paper, re-entrant and missing rib square grid auxetic structures were additively manufactured via the fused deposition modeling technique using two types of polyether imide materials: ULTEM 9085 and ULTEM 1010. In-plane quasi-static compressive tests were carried out on the proposed structures at different relative densities to investigate the Poisson’s ratio, equivalent modulus, deformation behavior, and energy absorption performance. Finite element simulations of the compression process were conducted, which confirmed the deformation behavior observed in the experiments. It was found that the Poisson’s ratio and normalized equivalent Young’s modulus of ULTEM 9085 and ULTEM 1010 with the same geometries were very close, while the energy absorption of the ductile ULTEM 9085 was significantly higher than that of the brittle ULTEM 1010 structures. Furthermore, a linear correlation exists between the relative density and specific energy absorption of missing rib square grid structures within the investigated relative density range, whereas the relationship for re-entrant structures follows a power law. This study provides a better understanding of how material properties influence the deformation behavior and energy absorption characteristics of auxetic structures.

Multiscale design of CFRPC sandwich structures with foam core: Microcellular optimization and compressive property evaluation

AbstractMicrocellular foam cores are commonly incorporated into composite sandwich structures in aerospace and automotive applications due to superior energy absorption properties, contributing to lightweight design. However, traditional manufacturing techniques, like mold pressing and hot‐press molding, entail multiple stages, require intricate tooling, and incur high costs, constraining the designs of advanced sandwich structures. This study aims to develop a novel manufacturing technique that facilitates the integration of microcellular foam cores and continuous fiber‐reinforced polymer composite panels or reinforcements for sandwich structures. First, integrating in‐situ microcellular foaming and CFRPC with additive manufacturing facilitates the efficient and effective production of sandwich structures with complex designs. Then, the design incorporated three scales: macroscopic sandwich structures, unit‐cells, and microcellular. Subsequently, various unit‐cell configurations (honeycomb, square, rhombus, and re‐entrant honeycomb) were manufactured, and compressive properties were evaluated through experimentation. Finally, the study revealed the effect of temperature on foam density and compression modulus, finding that 230 °C optimizes foam expansion, improving properties. A 10 mm rhombus unit‐cell structure exhibited the highest compression modulus (40.38 MPa) and specific energy absorption (59.02 mJ·m3/kg), making it the optimal choice for load‐bearing applications. Lattice‐web reinforcements within the foam core significantly enhance compressive strength and energy absorption. The findings suggest that the proposed multiscale design and production methodologies facilitate the development of innovative and high‐performance multiscale sandwich structures and reinforcements, which are unattainable through conventional techniques. These structures have potential applications in the aerospace and automotive industries, where lightweight, energy‐absorbing materials are crucial.Highlights CFRP AM integrates online foaming and unit‐cell design for multiscale sandwiches. High‐throughput tests modeled parameters, controlling microcellular foam. Rhombus‐10 maximized stiffness; re‐entrant absorbed energy efficiently. Vertical/Y lattices improved stiffness; cylindrical reduced foam crush. A process‐structure–property method supports multiscale sandwich composites.

Process-property relationships of sheet molding compound composites with calcium carbonate and hollow-glass microsphere loadings

This study investigates the effect of calcium carbonate (CaCO 3 ) fillers of varying particle sizes and hollow-glass microspheres (HGM) on process-property relationships in sheet molding compound (SMC) composites. A stepwise experimental approach assessed viscosity evolution, filler dispersion, curing enthalpy, and mechanical performance. Thickening kinetics depended on filler type: HGM slowed thickening, while fine CaCO 3 accelerated viscosity build-up via polymer bridging. Two thickening regimes were identified: CaCO 3 -rich systems formed denser polymer-filler networks, whereas HGM-CaCO 3 blends produced sparser agglomerates. Curing enthalpy correlated with storage modulus, peaking in HGM systems. Finer CaCO 3 influenced fiber bundle distribution and tensile strength; flexural strength remained stable. HGM enhanced impact strength through energy absorption from microsphere rupture, while hardness increased with dense carbonate packing.

An Experimental Investigation of Natural-fibre/Rubber Reinforced Bio-composites under Low-velocity Impact Analysis

Natural fibers are renewable, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly; they have become a viable material for a wide range of uses. These composites consist of a natural fibre matrix modified with flax, hemp, sisal, jute, and bamboo. The aim of this present investigation is to explore the existing research, which focuses on examining the influence of natural fibre's absorbed energy and peak force on hemp rubber hemp (HRH), jute rubber jute (JRJ), hemp rubber jute (HRJ), and glass rubber glass (GRG) composite laminates under Low-velocity impact (LVI) analysis. The LVI test results affirmed that the HRH laminates have more energy absorption and elastic energy by 44.34%, 10.6%, and 80% as compared to other configurations due to their stiffness and robustness. The free vibrational analysis shows that the HRH samples have the highest natural frequency of 526.9 Hz compared to JRJ, HRJ, and GRG. The Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) discloses the failure mechanisms of the tested samples, including interlaminar failure, delamination, and matrix cracking due to the stress concentration in the impacted region.

The axial compression energy absorption characteristics of bionic variable cross-section tubes

The axial compression energy absorption characteristics of bionic variable cross-section tubes

Viscoelastic materials evaluated for blast-resistant designs

Abstract Viscoelastic materials have extensive military applications due to their energy absorption capabilities, with the potential to reduce blast energy imposed on buildings, vehicles, and personnel. Based on current literature, limited information is available regarding the mitigation of blast energy related to these uses. The impact of thickness, nanoparticle addition, and layering variation was assessed in this study using commercially available viscoelastic materials in open-air blasts of Composition C4 to determine shock energy mitigation capabilities. Time-pressure waveforms were recorded to identify optimal changes in shock wave characteristics: reduced peak pressure, positive phase duration, and impulse, with increased rise times. Results were analyzed through trend and linear regression analysis to evaluate factors possibly influencing the behavior of the materials. Polyurethane-based materials reduced peak pressures by extending the positive phase duration, whereas silicone rubber maintained a similar duration with reduced peak pressures, suggesting differing energy dissipation mechanisms. Polyurethane was more effective due to its pressure reduction regardless of thickness, enabling thinner layers to be used to achieve similar results. Overall, thinner layers were more efficient, as diminished returns were evident by asymptotic points once reaching a 7-mm thickness. Incorporating graphene nanoplatelets increased energy transfer with peak pressure increases up to 16% in the polyurethane-based samples and impulse increases of 7.5% in the silicone rubber-based samples, making the baseline samples more effective. Layers alternating in material type reduced peak pressures up to 16% relative to baseline samples, with the most reduction occurring in the thicker layers. The alternate layering patterns proved pivotal in the results, those starting with silicone rubber being correlated to increases of 21% in positive phase duration and 6.5% in decay time.

Comparative Analysis of Novel Nonlinear Tuned Mass Damper Inerter and Traditional Tuned Mass Dampers in Steel Shear Frame Structures

This study thoroughly analyzes the Nonlinear Tuned Mass Damper Inerter (NTMDI) system and its performance relative to traditional systems like the Tuned Mass Damper (TMD) and Tuned Mass Damper Inerter (TMDI) in steel shear frame structures. Utilizing Opensees software, a 10-story steel shear frame is modeled, examining its dynamic responses under 10 seismic events. The Slime Mold Algorithm (SMA) is deployed to optimize the parameters of all three dampers, focusing on minimizing the maximum relative roof displacement. The findings indicate that while the TMD system effectively absorbs and dissipates energy, it demonstrates lower efficiency in reducing structural responses such as relative roof displacement, acceleration, and base shear due to its linear damping and stiffness characteristics and reliance on mass motion. Conversely, the TMDI employs inertial amplification, while the NTMDI integrates both inertial amplification and nonlinear stiffness mechanisms, leading to superior energy dissipation and enhanced control of structural response. Among the evaluated systems, the NTMDI consistently outperforms the others, achieving average reductions of 23.80% in relative displacement, 30.73% in base shear, and 17.25% in roof acceleration compared to an uncontrolled structure. Time-history evaluations validate NTMDI’s efficiency in mitigating seismic effects. Despite the TMD having the largest damper stroke and energy absorption, the NTMDI achieves more significant response reductions with reduced damper motion, highlighting the importance of nonlinear stiffness. In conclusion, the NTMDI system significantly advances passive seismic control by integrating nonlinear stiffness with an inerter device, enhancing energy dissipation, and improving structural stability during seismic events.

Additive Manufactured FeCrNi Medium Entropy Alloy Lattice Structure with Excellent Dynamic Mechanical Properties

Aerospace and marine engineering impose higher requirements on mechanical properties and lightweight design of materials. In this work, combining the high mechanical properties of FeCrNi medium entropy alloy (MEA) and the lightweight advantages of lattice structure, four types of high-performance FeCrNi MEA lattice structures (BCC, BCCZ, FCC, and FCCZ) were prepared by selective laser melting (SLM) technology, and their dynamic mechanical properties were systematically characterized via split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) method. The results demonstrate that the FCCZ FeCrNi MEA lattice structure exhibits superior comprehensive performance among the four lattice structures, achieving the highest specific compressive strength of 59.1 MPa·g−1·cm−3 and specific energy absorption of 26.3 J/g, significantly outperforming conventional lattice materials including 316L and AlSi10Mg alloys. Furthermore, the finite element simulation and Johnson-Cook (J-C) constitutive model of the dynamic compression process can effectively predict the microstructural evolution and mechanical response of lattice structure, providing critical theoretical guidance for optimizing the design of high-performance lattice structure materials.

Biomechanical Impact of Cementation Technique Variations on Femoral Stem Stability: An In Vitro Polyurethane Model Study

Background/Objectives: Achieving optimal primary stability in cemented total hip arthroplasty remains a critical factor influencing long-term implant success. Variability in cementation techniques can significantly affect biomechanical performance, yet consensus on best practices is lacking. This study investigates the influence of cementation parameters on femoral stem fixation. Methods: This in vitro comparative study evaluated four cementation techniques—Classic (line-to-line), Press-Fit (undersized reaming), Overreaming (oversized reaming), and Valgus Malpositioning (15° deviation). An experimental model using standardized Polyurethane (PU) bone surrogates was developed. Mechanical testing assessed axial deformation and ultimate load capacity to failure. Results: The Press-Fit technique demonstrated significantly greater deformation (17.10 ± 0.89 mm) but a reduced load capacity (6317.47 ± 518.34 N) compared to the Classic approach. Overreaming and Valgus techniques both showed reduced mechanical performance, with Overreaming yielding the lowest structural integrity. Conclusions: Cement mantle thickness emerged as the primary determinant of biomechanical stability, surpassing the impact of implant positioning. While increased mantle thickness improves energy absorption, it may compromise ultimate strength. These findings underscore the importance of optimizing the cementation technique to balance flexibility and mechanical resistance, guiding surgical protocols toward improved implant longevity. This study introduces a novel integrative approach combining fluoroscopic assessment of cement mantle morphology with mechanical testing in a standardized model, providing new evidence on the relative influence of mantle thickness and implant malposition on femoral stem stability.

Effect of Solution Temperature on the Microstructure of 18%Ni Maraging Steel Modified With Nb—X‐Ray Diffraction and Electron Backscattered Scanning Diffraction (EBSD) Analyzes

ABSTRACTMaraging steels are high strength alloys used in applications that require both high mechanical strength and toughness. To achieve these properties, one of the heat treatments applied is solution treatment, although it can reduce toughness. This study compares the effect of two solution treatment temperatures, 910°C and 1100°C, on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a niobium‐containing maraging steel. Microstructural analysis was performed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), light optical microscopy (LOM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XRD analysis showed that dislocation density was higher for the sample treated at 1100°C. The XRD data were analyzed using the Williamson‐Hall method to estimate dislocation densities, and the Scherrer equation was applied to calculate crystallite sizes. EBSD revealed that solution treatment at 1100°C resulted in larger grain sizes and greater dissolution of Mo, Nb‐rich precipitates. Vickers hardness and Charpy impact tests were used to evaluate the mechanical properties. The Vickers hardness was slightly higher for the sample treated at 910°C due to the higher amount of precipitates present. In contrast, Charpy toughness increased with solution treatment temperature, reaching 98 J for the 1100°C condition, indicating greater impact energy absorption. Fractography showed predominantly ductile fractures in both conditions.