Advanced Mechanical Metamaterials: Hybrid Lattice Structures, Design Strategies, Multifunctionality, and Challenges for Additive Manufacturing

Hybrid lattice structures combine different lattice types to achieve tailored material properties, improved mechanical performance, and multifunctionality, all while supporting sustainable design. Unlike reviews that primarily focus on homogeneous lattice systems, this work delves into the unique benefits of hybrid configurations, exploring design strategies, hybridization methods, and their impact on mechanical properties. This review discusses the different strategies for the design of hybrid lattice structures, hybridization techniques, lattice interconnectivity, and the advantages and effects of hybridization on the mechanical properties of structures. Additionally, the contribution of bioinspiration and enabling multifunctional structures due to the advancement of lattice design are discussed. As the manufacturing industry seeks lightweight yet strong materials for sustainable manufacturing, exploring hybrid design is very important. Investigating hybrid lattice structures can offer new design freedom, creating new applications of lattice structures across various industries. This review also examines current limitations and emerging opportunities, including the transformative role of artificial intelligence in optimizing hybrid lattice designs, paving the way for more efficient, adaptive, and environmentally conscious innovations.