Numerical-experimental investigation of local damage and failure in additively manufactured Bézier-based lattice structures

Architected lattice structures are increasingly investigated for lightweight applications because their mechanical response can be tailored through geometry, rather than being controlled only by the base material properties. Among the available design strategies, Bézier-based unit cells provide an effective way to generate curved lattice members with a controlled shape. This work presents a numerical-experimental investigation of the mechanical response and local failure of additively manufactured Bézier-based lattice structures. Different lattice geometries, obtained by varying characteristic parameters of the Bézier curves, were tested under quasi-static compression, and their global force-displacement responses were compared with finite element simulations based on an elastoplastic material model. The comparison between experiments and simulations highlights the influence of lattice geometry on stiffness, maximum load and post-peak response. The numerical models reproduce the main experimental trends, while differences in stiffness and peak force can be attributed to material variability, dimensional deviations and printing-induced defects. The finite element stress fields support the interpretation of the observed failure mechanisms by identifying the regions where local damage and rupture are expected to initiate. The proposed numerical-experimental approach provides a useful basis for the design of reliable architected materials and for future investigations on local failure and durability of additively manufactured lightweight structures.