Creating hollow microlattice materials reinforced by carbon nanotubes for improved mechanical properties

Abstract Hollow microlattice material is a novel cellular material with ultra-light, ultra-strong properties. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) exhibit extraordinary mechanical performance when used as one-dimensional reinforcement. Aiming at exploring strengthening effects of CNTs on the hollow microlattice materials, Ni-P-CNT based hollow microlattice materials with density ranging from 35 to 98 kg/m 3 were fabricated by means of combining additive manufacturing, composite electroless plating and template etching. In-situ compression tests were conducted. In comparison, elastic moduli and compressive strengths of Ni-P hollow microlattices were improved by a factor of 2.4–2.6 and 2.0–2.9, respectively, by introduction of CNTs. The enhancement of mechanical performance was attributed to the interaction between Ni-P amorphous material and CNTs by load transfer and shear band strengthening mechanisms.