Investigation on deformation process of cellular structures with gradient topology manufactured additively

The main aim of the paper is to present the results of experimental investigations on the deformation process of cellular structures with gradient topologies under quasi-static loading conditions. The specimens used in the tests were designed with the use of a hexagon shape of a unit cell with a graded size preserving the equivalent global size and wall thickness dimensions. The manufacturing process of structure samples was realized by two different 3D printing methods: FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication) and SLA (Selective Laser Sintering). Additionally, two types of materials differing with mechanical properties were used to determine the mechanism of structure damage during the deformation process. As a result of the conducted investigations, it was possible to define a relationship between a structure topology and relative density versus energy absorption capacity.