Evans, A. G.He, M. Y.Deshpande, V.S.Hutchinson, JohnJacobsen, A. J.Barvosa-Carter, W.2010-06-102010Evans, A. G., M. Y. He, V. S. Deshpande, John W. Hutchinson, A. J. Jacobsen, and W. Barvosa-Carter. 2010. Concepts for enhanced energy absorption using hollow micro-lattices. International Journal of Impact Engineering 37(9): 947-959.0734-743Xhttp://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:4211042We present a basic analysis that establishes the metrics affecting the energy absorbed by multilayer cellular media during irreversible compaction on either a mass or volume basis. The behaviors at low and high impulse levels are distinguished through the energy dissipated in the shock. The overall mass of an energy absorbing system (comprising a cellular medium and a buffer) is minimized by maximizing the non-dimensional dissipation per unit mass parameter for the cellular medium, Λ≡Umρs/σY, where Um is the dissipation per unit mass of the cellular medium, ascertained from the area under the quasi-static compressive stress/strain curve, σY the yield strength of the constituent material and ρs the density of the material used in the medium. Plots of Λ against the non-dimensional stress transmitted through the medium, σtr/σY demonstrate the relative energy absorbing characteristics of foams and prismatic media, such as honeycombs. Comparisons with these benchmark systems are used to demonstrate the superior performance of micro-lattices, especially those with hollow truss members. Numerical calculations demonstrate the relative densities and geometric configurations wherein the lattices offer benefit. Experimental results obtained for a Ni micro-lattice with hollow members not only affirm the benefits, but also demonstrate energy absorption levels substantially exceeding those predicted by analysis. This assessment highlights the new opportunities that tailored micro-lattices provide for unprecedented levels of energy absorption for protection from impulsive loads.en-USenergy absorptionimpulsecellular mediummicro-latticesfinite elementJournal Article2010-06-1010.1016/j.ijimpeng.2010.03.007