A comparative analysis between hexagonal and circular cells honeycombs based on integral 3D-printed sandwich panels

Abstract

Honeycombs are commonly used as core materials in sandwich panels, and the core geometry significantly impacts the bending behaviour of these structures. Understanding how core characteristics influence the mechanical properties of sandwich panels is essential. The comparison between different honeycomb sandwich panel configurations is quite complex. This study delves into the intricate comparison between various honeycomb sandwich panel configurations, serving as a benchmark for integral 3D printed panels featuring hexagonal cores in both L- and W-directions, and circular cores. Notably, wrinkling phenomena are observed in the L-direction of the hexagonal cores. Circular cell panels exhibit increased load capacity, flexural modulus, and toughness. Additionally, hexagonal L-core panels demonstrate a higher toughness modulus than their W-core counterparts, making them less rigid yet stronger. Furthermore, L-cell core panels possess a lower density than circular cores, whereas W-cell cores exhibit higher density, compromising their specific mechanical properties.