Numerical Study on the Quantitative Structure-Property Relation of Lattice Truss Metals

Abstract

The structure-property relationship of lattice truss metals is investigated by correlating effective properties with quantitative structural parameters such as Maxwell stability parameter, truss thickness, and coordination number excluding porosity. Even at the same porosity, the effective properties can vary many folds due to the structural difference. The elastic modulus and the thermal conductivity of nine representative lattice trusses are calculated using finite element analysis and are correlated with the structural parameters. It is confirmed that the structural dependence of the elastic modulus is higher than that of the thermal conductivity, as stated by M. F. Ashby. The Maxwell stability parameter and the coordination number have more effects than the truss thickness. All structural parameters except the porosity show weak correlation with properties. In other words, each parameter makes a little contribution. Overall, it seems that their combination causes a significant difference in the physical properties. © 2022 The Japan Institute of Metals and Materials.