Meso- and macroscale modelling strategies for biomimetic structures produced using L-PBF technology

This paper investigates the mechanical behaviour of biomimetic structures produced using L-PBF technology. Specifically, the triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) gyroid structure was analysed. The TPMS are receiving significant attention in biomedical applications to produce structures with high strength-to-weight ratio, better control over the transition in properties between the prosthesis and the bone tissue, such as stiffness and density, and improved interface adhesion. The mechanical characterisation of these structures is the current challenge for researchers. We propose a preliminary modelling strategy for a homogenisation procedure based on the Representative Volume Element (RVE) theory and traditional mesoscale and macroscale finite element (FE) analysis integrated with evaluating the anisotropy induced by the printing process. The results indicate that the L-PBF produces an orthotropic base material, the unit cell exhibits an anisotropic behaviour, and the macroscopic modelling reduces the computational cost. However, a mesoscopic approach is necessary to define the anisotropic elastic matrix of the cell.