Advances in additive manufacturing of auxetic structures for biomedical applications

Auxetic structures, a class of metamaterials, exhibit a unique negative Poisson's ratio behavior. Their mechanical properties demonstrate considerable potential for applications in biomedical engineering. Recent advances in additive manufacturing have facilitated the production of net-shape components with complex geometric designs, including auxetic structures. This review paper explores the methods used in additive manufacturing auxetic structures, elucidates their mechanical properties, and gives an overview over the most recent developments related to their potential applications in the context of biomedical devices. It also critically assesses surface treatment methods that may be applicable for enhancing their biocompatibility as well as antimicrobial protection.