Multifunctional material systems present significant opportunities across various engineering fields by enabling tailored modifications of mechanical properties through the design of unit cell geometries. The integration of mechanical properties with secondary attributes such as electrical conductivity, multi-stability in mechanical stiffness, and torsional responses under mechanical loading—particularly in load-torsion coupling materials—highlights the complexity of these systems. However, these modifications pose challenges in terms of adequate characterization techniques.

In this work, we present approaches to evaluate structural behaviour using a customized multimodal test rig that accounts for forces and moments in all spatial directions, as well as a combination of axial and torsional loads. Additionally, in-situ nondestructive testing (NDT) methods, such as four-wire resistance measurement, can be incorporated to enhance the characterization process. These techniques can be tailored to a wide range of materials, from unit cells and model structures to bulk components, providing comprehensive insights into their properties and performance.