A novel combined auxetic tubular structure with enhanced tunable stiffness

Abstract Auxetic materials exhibit interesting deformation characteristics and excellent mechanical properties. A novel combined tubular structure with tunable stiffness is proposed in this work, aiming to improve the bearing capacity and stability by length design of the central column. Specimens were fabricated via 3D printing technique. Experimental test was performed to study their mechanical property and deformation characteristics under uniaxial compression. The validity of the finite element model was proved by comparing the experimental result with simulation prediction. The compression process and stress-strain curve of the tubular structure with tunable stiffness exhibited four distinct stages (elastic, stiffness change, densification and buckling). Subsequently, a parametrical analysis was conducted to investigate the influences of the central connecting column on the stress-strain response, Poisson's ratio and stability of the structure. By properly choosing the length of the central connecting column, the tubular structure could possess tunable stiffness, higher stability and compressive capacity. Furthermore, this design concept could be of benefit to the development of adaptive structures, smart devices and applications for civil engineering and protective engineering.