Parametric design and mechanical properties of 3D printed mechanical metamaterials based on triply periodic minimal surfaces

The triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structure demonstrates a distinct performance advantage in several dimensions over conventional topological porous structures, and the smooth through geometry has a crucial effect on the actual performance improvement. In this study, four TPMS structures with porosities of 30 %, 40 %, 50 %, and 60 % were fabricated by selective laser sintering 3D printing technology. Additionally, quasi-static compression experiments and drop hammer impact experiments were performed to investigate the compression properties and seismic energy absorption capability. The results indicate that the mechanical properties, such as compression characteristics, impact resistance, and seismic energy absorption capacity were enhanced with the increase of porosity. Considering that TPMS structures with the same porosity also differed in mechanical properties, a reasonable design of the structure is required in accordance with the actual situation. This work will enlighten the design of TPMS structures that exhibit optimal compression performances, impact resistance, and seismic energy absorption capacity, making them well-suited for diverse engineering applications, including aerospace, transportation equipment and civil engineering.