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Functionally graded and multi-morphology sheet TPMS lattices: Design, manufacturing, and mechanical properties
Oraib Al-Ketan1, Dong-Wook Lee2, Reza Rowshan3
1Advanced Digital & Additive Manufacturing Center, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Mechanical Engineering Department, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Core Technology Platforms, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Functionally graded lattices with varying density and cell size show distinct deformation patterns based on loading direction. Multi-morphology lattices also exhibit unique mechanical responses, with sheet-networks outperforming solid-networks.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Background:
- Functionally graded and multi-morphology lattices offer spatial control over properties for tissue engineering.
- Triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) like Schoen Gyroid and Schwarz Diamond are key lattice topologies.
- Understanding mechanical behavior under different loading conditions is crucial for application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To mechanically investigate relative density grading, cell size grading, and multi-morphology in TPMS-based lattices.
- To analyze the influence of loading direction on deformation mechanisms.
- To compare the elastic properties of sheet-network versus solid-network multi-morphology lattices.
Main Methods:
- Mechanical testing of sheet-based lattices with TPMS topologies (Schoen Gyroid, Schwarz Diamond).
- Loading tests performed parallel and perpendicular to the grading direction.
- Finite Element (FE) analysis to compare lattice network types.
Main Results:
- Relative density grading showed layer-by-layer deformation (parallel) vs. shear band deformation (perpendicular), impacting Young's Modulus.
- Multi-morphology lattices shifted deformation mechanisms based on hybridization direction.
- Sheet-network multi-morphology lattices demonstrated superior elastic properties compared to solid-networks.
Conclusions:
- Lattice grading and morphology significantly influence mechanical response and deformation mechanisms.
- Loading direction is a critical factor in determining lattice mechanical behavior.
- Sheet-network TPMS lattices present a promising avenue for enhanced mechanical performance in tissue engineering scaffolds.

