Evaluation of Structural Honeycomb Sensitivity to Filler Metal Reinforcement

Structural honeycomb is widely used as both an impact limiter and rigid structural support in applications which require a high specific strength and highly characterized energy absorption profile. Structural honeycomb is an anisotropic material with limited strength in directions perpendicular to the cells and features mechanical properties that are largely driven by the materials of construction and structure density. As a result, the mechanical properties of honeycomb are sensitive to the specific geometry, orientation, and reinforcement of the honeycomb structure. This study evaluates the effects of these characteristics on stainless steel structural honeycomb to account for the complex loading conditions experienced during radioactive material package regulatory testing. This material is intended for use in applications where organically bonded honeycomb cannot be used.