4D printed zero Poisson’s ratio metamaterials with vibration isolation properties for magnetic response

Although mechanical metamaterials possess high specific energy absorption, they suffer from drawbacks such as irreversible deformations and non-adjustable mechanical properties. Magnetic excitation is considered to be one of the most promising methods for special working environments; for which uniform incorporation of UV-cured four-dimensional (4D) printed resin is considered to be an effective approach to achieving fine structural features. Our study investigated the impact of soft magnetic particle content on the mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties of a shape memory polymer matrix material. This paper presents a 4D printed metamaterial with a zero Poisson’s ratio that can sense magnetic field intensity and alter its mechanical properties. Its rapid shape recovery, achieved through magnetic excitation, enables multiple energy absorption within a short timeframe. By increasing the curvature radius, the stress concentration in the hexagonal honeycomb structure is reduced, ensuring the metamaterial maintains its zero Poisson’s ratio even under in-plane loading. The study investigates the energy absorption performance and force–displacement curve of metamaterials with different layers and cell sizes, focusing on a four-layer metamaterial for the analysis. Furthermore, the paper explores the tunable energy absorption characteristics of the four-layer metamaterial under time-varying electromagnetic fields, aiming to enhance the stability of a lander’s center of gravity while landing on uneven terrain.