Structural optimization of additively manufactured PETG/CF honeycomb sandwich structures for lightweight applications

This research investigates the mechanical properties of 3D-printed Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG) and PETG reinforced with 15% Carbon Fibers (CF), using fused deposition modeling (FDM) through experimental and numerical analyses. Tensile tests were conducted to compare the tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and yield strength between pure PETG polymer and PETG/CF composite. The experimental results were complemented by Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations to model and validate the tensile behavior through the implementation of the Voce law of plasticity. Additionally, the study examines the mechanical performance of honeycomb sandwich structures with different core designs: rectilinear, auxetic, and hexagonal. Three-point bending experiments were performed to assess the load-bearing capacity and deformation behavior of these structures, with the experimental results verified through FEM. By integrating experimental data with numerical simulations, this research aims to provide comprehensive insights into optimizing the mechanical properties and structural performance of PETG-based composites and honeycomb sandwich structures for various engineering applications.