A simple 3D re-entrant auxetic metamaterial with enhanced energy absorption

•A simple re-entrant auxetic metamaterial is designed by rotating and connecting 2D re-entrant honeycomb cells.•The energy absorption of the proposed metamaterial is discussed under different design parameters.•The proposed 3D re-entrant auxetic lattice has desirable stiffness and specific energy absorption.•The initial peak stress and energy absorption capacity of the metamaterial can be adjusted via changing design parameters.