Multifunctional microtruss laminates: Textile synthesis and properties

Open cell periodic metal truss structures can exhibit significantly higher stiffnesses and strengths than stochastic cellular metal structures of the same relative density while still providing high mechanical energy absorption and efficient heat exchange opportunities. Here, a potentially inexpensive textile-based approach to the synthesis of periodic metal microtruss laminates is reported. The process consists of selecting a wire weave, laying up the mesh and joining using a transient liquid phase. Example structures constructed from nichrome (Ni–24Fe–16Cr) wire cloth were made and tested. These exhibited a linear dependence of stiffness and strength upon relative density, absorbed large amounts of mechanical energy, and showed good potential for efficient heat exchange.