On the mechanical behavior of polymeric lattice structures fabricated by stereolithography 3D printing

Abstract

Abstract The utilization of 3D printing technology has transformed the possibilities for design adaptability and manufacturability. This study delves into the mechanical response and energy absorptivity of resin‐based lattice structures when subjected to compression, specifically examining structures fabricated from Tough 2000 (ductile) and Rigid 10K (brittle) resin materials using a stereolithography 3D printer. The analysis encompasses various types of lattice designs (such as cubic‐primitive, circular, triangular, and hexagonal), gradient structures, and combined shape configurations with varying strut dimensions. The primary objective is to provide significant findings regarding the compressive performance of these resin lattice structures produced through 3D printing. Analysis results show that graded and combined lattice designs have better compressive behavior compared to regular shapes with the same strut thickness. In addition, and for strut thickness of 0.5 mm, combined lattice designs show better energy absorption capabilities compared to regular shapes.

Keywords

• 3D printing
• compressive behavior
• energy absorption
• lattice structure
• polymer