Compressive behavior and shape memory performance of <scp>4D‐</scp>printed metamaterial structures with different Poisson's ratio combinations

Abstract This paper explores the potential applications of 4D printing technology in the aerospace field, with a focus on the mechanical properties and reusability of honeycomb metamaterials with shape memory characteristics fabricated using shape memory polymers (SMPs). Currently, research on the reusability of SMP‐based metamaterials is limited, particularly regarding the influence of cellular unit geometries on their recovery performance, which remains unclear. To address this gap, this study combines typical cellular units with positive, negative, and zero Poisson's ratio properties into various structures. Through quasi‐static compression experiments, complemented by three‐dimensional digital image correlation (DIC) technology and finite element analysis, the mechanical compression performance and deformation mechanisms of the three structures are compared in detail. The deformation patterns under compression are elucidated, and the influence of geometric shapes on deformation behavior and mechanical response is analyzed. Shape memory recovery experiments, including single‐cycle and multi‐cycle tests, are designed to evaluate the 4D smart recovery performance of the three structures in terms of key metrics such as recovery rate and restoring force. This study systematically characterizes the compressive mechanical properties and shape memory recovery characteristics of honeycomb structures with different Poisson's ratio combinations, providing significant guidance for the research and development of 4D‐printed mechanical metamaterials. Highlights Metamaterial structures combining unit cells with different Poisson's ratios. DIC and FEM are used to assess the effects of unit cells on deformation and failure. ZAZ structure shows superior stiffness and energy absorption in compression. Evaluate the shape memory performance of SMP under loading conditions. ZAP structure exhibits more stable cyclic recovery behavior under loading.