Compressive behavior of 3D-printed hexagonal and square honeycomb lattices

Lattice structures, also known as porous or cellular structures, are lightweight architectures composed of periodically repeated geometric patterns with favorable mechanical performance, stiffness, and energy absorption capabilities. This study investigates the deformation behavior and compressive properties of hexagonal and square honeycomb rotated lattice structures with identical volume fractions fabricated using fused filament fabrication. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU 95A) is used as the printing material, and specimens are produced under different process parameter settings. The experimental investigation focuses on the influence of process parameters on the deformation behavior and compressive performance of two-dimensional lattice structures. Quasi-static compression tests are conducted at various displacement levels to evaluate the mechanical response of the lattices. The results reveal three distinct deformation stages: elastic deformation, plateau region, and densification. Mechanical properties such as load-bearing capacity (N), mass (M), vertical stiffness (K), and specific energy absorption are analyzed to evaluate the load-bearing capacity, stiffness, and energy absorption capability of the structures. The results indicate that the square honeycomb rotated lattice structure exhibits superior compressive performance, vertical stiffness, and specific energy absorption, demonstrating its potential application as a spoke structure in non-pneumatic tires for enhanced energy absorption capacity.