Bio-inspired structures for energy efficiency

In contrast to traditional man-made materials, the biological structures show superior mechanical properties including high strength and energy absorption capacity. The lattice structures were obtained by additive manufacturing using VAT photopolymerisation. Three types of structures were considered: regular square, triangular and deep-sea glass sponge. This paper investigates the mechanical response of the three considered structures and the failure modes. The specific strength of the deep-sea inspired structure has the highest specific strength and energy efficency.