A comparative experimental study on the compressive mechanical properties of honeycomb structural mechanics made of different materials via selective laser melting additives

To explore the influence of applied materials on the compressive properties of honeycomb structures fabricated by selective laser melting (SLM) technology, four typical materials, titanium alloy (TC11), tool steel (18Ni300), superalloy (GH4169) and aluminum alloy (AlSi10Mg), were selected as raw materials. Composition analysis, surface and internal structure observation, and compression experiments were carried out on the honeycomb structure samples made of four kinds of materials. For experimental analysis, it was found that deformation and cracking are the main compression failure modes. In addition, the compression failure or deformation is located at the middle of the honeycomb structure. Specifically, TC11 material has the strongest resistance to compressive loads, but can withstand small deformations. The comprehensive performance of 18Ni300 and GH4169 are at an intermediate level, which means they have the high resistance to compression and deformation at the same time. AlSi10Mg has the worst performance and is not suitable for use in compressive conditions. This study reveals the compressive mechanical performance of honeycomb structures manufactured with additives, providing experimental support for the functional application of honeycomb structures.