Performance evaluation of additively manufactured lattices and development of defect-driven models

Mechanically optimized lattice structures fabricated through additive manufacturing (AM) have high stiffness, strength, and tailorability. These attributes are quickly making them the superior lightweight materials utilized in aerospace, automotive, and defense industries. Performance evaluation of these lattices relies on characterization of their macroscopic failure and external response under applicable loading conditions of very high stress and strain rates. Dynamic compression experiments are an ideal technique to recreate stress conditions relevant to industrial applications, as they create substantial uniaxial strain. Here, we will share findings from shock recovery experiments of Ti5553 AM lattices flanked by a baseplate of Cu impacted at speeds <2 km/s and released back to ambient conditions. Coupling these experiments with detailed molecular dynamic simulations, computed tomography (CT), and postmortem scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging will lend insight to the dynamic properties and performance of the lattice structures, as well as their effect on their surroundings. An initial focus on recovery capsule design will be taken to allow for proper incorporation of the Cu baseplate and efficient adaptation for future experiments on additional AM lattices of interest such as gyroid structures. This effort will provide an improved understanding of how intricate AM architectures fail when they experience high strain rates and their subsequent effects on surrounding materials.