Enhanced impact resistance of 3D printed nacre-like composites (Conference Presentation)

We develop bimaterial composites with enhanced impact resistance by mimicking a unique hierarchical geometry inherent in nacre. Three-dimensional models of the nacre-like composites are developed using pattern-generating algorithms, and the corresponding experiment specimens are fabricated by means of an FDM-based 3D printer. Under drop weight impact tests, it is found that the impact resistance of the nacre-like composite is significantly improved compared with a monolithic stiff specimen. The performance enhancement is also verified through numerical simulation with the use of a commercial finite element code. Mimicking the natural hierarchical architecture can render a guideline toward the development of high-performance material systems.