Effective properties of the octet-truss lattice material

The effective mechanical properties of the octet-truss lattice structured m aterial have been investigated both experimentally and theoretically. Analy tical and FE calculations of the elastic properties and plastic yielding co llapse surfaces are reported. The intervention of elastic buckling of the s truts is also analysed in an approximate manner. Good agreement is found be tween the predictions of the strength and experimental observations from te sts on the octet-truss material made from a casting aluminium alloy. Moreov er, the strength and stiffness of the octet-truss material are stretching-d ominated and compare favourably with the corresponding properties of metall ic foams. Thus, the octet-truss lattice material can be considered as a pro mising alternative to metallic foams in lightweight structures. (C) 2001 El sevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.