Electromagnetic wave absorption and compressive behavior of a three-dimensional metamaterial absorber based on 3D printed honeycomb

Lightweight structures with multi-functions such as electromagnetic wave absorption and excellent mechanical properties are required in spacecraft. A three-dimensional metamaterial absorber consisting of honeycomb and resistive films was proposed and fabricated through 3D printing and silk-screen printing technology. According to simulation and experiment results, the present three-dimensional metamaterial absorber can realize an absorptivity of more than 90% in a wide band of 3.53–24.00 GHz, and improve absorbing efficiency for transverse magnetic (TM) waves of oblique incidence angle from 0° to 70°. The compression test results reveal that compressive strength of the 3D printed honeycomb can reach 10.7 MPa with density of only 254.91 kg/m3, and the energy absorption per volume Wv and per unit mass Wm are 4.37 × 103 KJ/m3 and 17.14 KJ/Kg, respectively. The peak compressive strength and energy absorption per mass are at least 2.2 and 3 times comparing to metallic lattice cores with the same density. Outstanding electromagnetic wave absorption and mechanical performance make the present three-dimensional metamaterial absorber more competitive in engineering applications.