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 absorpti
on and efficient heat exchange opportunities. Here, a potentially inexpensi
ve textile-based approach to the synthesis of periodic metal microtruss lam
inates 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. T
hese exhibited a linear dependence of stiffness and strength upon relative
density, absorbed large amounts of mechanical energy, and showed good poten
tial for efficient heat exchange.