Abstract
This experimental research investigates the structural performance of novel 3D-printed multilayer sandwich structures with bio-inspired cellular core configurations under quasi-static out-of-plane compressive load. Specimens were fabricated using the Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) additive manufacturing method with Nylon PA12 and designed with various core geometric configurations to assess their impact on mechanical performance and energy absorption capacity. The experimental results indicate that structural geometry significantly influences the energy absorption efficiency of the proposed novel multilayer sandwich panels. Among the tested configurations, the sample with the rhombic cell shape proved to be the most effective. They distributed stress evenly and deformed gradually, preventing sudden failure or buckling in the core components. Hexagonal cell structures also exhibited significant energy absorption properties, providing an optimal balance between structural strength and weight efficiency. In contrast, square and circular cell shapes were less effective than other cell types, exhibiting lower load-bearing capacity and reduced energy absorption efficiency. These findings demonstrate the potential of the proposed 3D-printed bio-inspired structures to advance the development of lightweight, high-performance solutions for a wide range of engineering applications.