Functional grading of polymer triply periodic minimal surface structures for enhanced compressive performance and lightweight design in additive manufacturing
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: This study explores the fabrication and performance of functionally graded gyroid lattice structures produced by fused deposition modeling (FDM) using polylactic acid (PLA). Lattice thicknesses were varied from 1 mm to 5 mm across five series to optimize weight reduction and compressive strength. Thermogravimetric (TGA) and differential thermal (DTA) analyses indicated a PLA degradation point between 350-400 °C, with peak decomposition near 400 °C. Hardness tests averaged 77.6 Shore-D, showing consistent mechanical properties across graded samples. Compression tests revealed three deformation stages: linear elasticity, elastic-plastic transition, and densification. Results showed that increased lattice thickness correlated with higher initial peak stress, ranging from 6.8 MPa at 1 mm to 25.3 MPa at 5 mm, indicating enhanced structural robustness. The study demonstrates that functionally graded lattice structures can be tailored for specific mechanical needs, supporting their suitability for lightweight, load-bearing applications in fields such as automotive and aerospace. The successful production of complex gyroid structures using FDM confirms the method’s capability in creating advanced, structurally efficient lattice designs.
Source: DergiPark (Istanbul University)
Author: Türkoğlu, Türker
Institution: Balıkesir University
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4405969071