Quasi - static and impact performance study of a three-dimensional negative Poisson's ratio structure with adjustable mechanical properties

The mechanical properties of most materials with a negative Poisson's ratio (NPR) cannot be flexibly adjusted after being designed to meet complex engineering requirements. To ensure the changes of those materials’ relative density are minimal when overcoming these limitations, this study proposes a novel method that adjusts the mechanical performance by grooving the structure and adjusting the angle of the diagonal support rod. Unlike traditional methods that involve adding 'ribs' to the structure for adjustability, this approach focuses on the design of the structure itself. To analyze the large deformation behavior of unit-cell lattices, we established a theoretical model based on plastic deformation theory and derive the relationship between the number of unit-cell lattices and the relative density of multi-cell lattices. Experimental samples were fabricated by using selective laser melting (SLM). Meanwhile, the accuracy of the finite element results was verified by quasi-static compression experiments and impact experiments. Then the validated finite element model is then utilized to discuss the influence of structural parameters on mechanical properties. In addition, we also studied the influence of medium and low-speed impact loads on the deformation characteristics, mechanical properties, and energy absorption (EA) of the structures. The results demonstrate the reliability of the design method, showcasing its potential to achieve on-demand adjustability of stress, stiffness, and strength to meet complex engineering requirements. Notably, the adjustment range of peak load is from 24.55 MPa at the lower limit α = 60° to 48.29 MPa at the upper limit α = 90°, with an adjustment range of 23.74 MPa. The adjustment range of the average platform stress is from 10.8 MPa at the lower limit of α = 60° to 24.34 MPa at the upper limit of α = 80°, and the adjustment range reaches 13.54 MPa. This study provides new insights on intelligent protection engineering and the adjustable mechanical properties of metamaterials.