  Bistable Auxetic Metamaterials (BAMs) are a class of monolithic perforated
periodic structures with negative Poisson's ratio. Under tension, a BAM can
expand and reach a second state of equilibrium through a globally large shape
transformation that is ensured by the flexibility of its elastomeric base
material. However, if made from a rigid polymer, or metal, BAM ceases to
function due to the inevitable rupture of its ligaments. The goal of this work
is to extend the unique functionality of the original kirigami architecture of
BAM to a rigid solid base material. We use experiments and numerical
simulations to assess performance, bistability and durability of rigid BAMs at
10,000 cycles. Geometric maps are presented to elucidate the role of the main
descriptors of BAM architecture. The proposed design enables the realization of
BAM from a large palette of materials, including elastic-perfectly plastic
materials and potentially brittle materials.
