A 3D kirigami meta-structure with programmable and directionally tailored thermal expansion

Thermally responsive mechanical metamaterials enable unconventional thermal expansion behaviors for advanced engineering applications. However, existing designs often face challenges in achieving scalable and programmable tailored responses. In this work, we proposed a 3D kirigami meta-structure capable of realizing positive, zero, and negative thermal expansion (PTE, ZTE, and NTE) through a kinematics-driven design strategy. To achieve thermal actuation, curved thermostatic metal strips were integrated in place of traditional creases. The design was validated through theoretical modeling, finite element (FE) simulations, and experimental tests. Furthermore, by assembling unit cells with varied geometries and material configurations, complex yet deformation-compatible arrays are constructed, significantly enhancing both flexibility and scalability. Overall, this work presents a programmable, scalable, and directionally tailored thermal response strategy, with promising applications in thermal stress management for precision engineering systems such as space telescopes, satellite components, and advanced optical instruments.