Additive Manufacturing of Bioinspired Bulk Gradient Structures to Enhance Mechanical Performance

Abstract

The research objective of this project is to investigate the effects of energy density-based process parameters on the resulting mechanical properties of stainless steel 316L built by a powder-bed additive manufacturing process. More specifically, we will to elucidate how the volumetric energy density imparted by the laser as well as the energy deposition rate, affects the hardness, porosity and density of the bulk material. For this, process parameters such as laser power, and the variables constituting the effective scanning speed were changed, which effectively alters the energy density imparted onto the material. By conducting a systematic design of experiments, an understanding of the resolutions of properties achievable is obtained. The resulting structures were tested for hardness, density measurements, and underwent elemental analysis. By understanding the relationships of these mechanical properties as a function of process energy density, it will be possible to create tailored spatial mechanical property gradients. Bioinspired gradient structures can then be created and their mechanical performance evaluated.