Enhanced compressive mechanical properties of different topological lattice structures fabricated by additive manufacturing

This study focuses on the mechanical properties of 316 L stainless steel lattice structures. Three types of lattice structures with varying topology cells were designed and fabricated by additive manufacturing (AM) techniques. The experimental test and numerical simulation were employed to investigate compressive response and failure mechanisms of lattice structures. The results indicate that decreasing the porosity or unit cell size of lattice structures can significantly improve mechanical performance. Furthermore, it is noted that lattice structures with face-centered cubic with(vertical) Z-struts (FCCZ) cells exhibit the highest elastic modulus, compressive strength, and energy absorption, along with distinct failure modes in comparison to other types of lattice structures.