Testing Low-Density Polyethylene Glass Composites in FDM 3D Printing https://ift.tt/2ZtOBPW Wear resistance in 3D printed materials is critical for many users, with few research studies so far delving into such details for ABS or PC-ABS blends. Much of the concern is centered around anisotropic mechanical properties too, all in relation to ‘friction direction,’ with their findings outlined in ‘Preliminary Characterization of Novel LDPE-Based Wear-Resistant Composite Suitable for FDM 3D Printing.’ Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is a polymer used in many different types of packaging, and the authors point out that it is responsible for a substantial amount of waste—which optimally, should be recycled in FDM 3D printing. And while this is certainly not a novel idea, with the exercise of recycling plastic that has been discarded and grinding it into pellet or powder form for re-use being completely feasible, it is not a habit that has become widespread with users yet. In exploring LDPE, the authors point out that it not only has inferior strength and stiffness but is also responsible for adhesion issues and high shrinkage—all qualities pointing to the need for a composite material with the potential for adding ceramic or metal.
LDPE as a friction material offers potential, and especially when wear resistance is a critical issue; for example, the soles of shoes also require hardness, plasticity, elasticity, and more. LDPE can also be used as a near-surface filler or in creating products like sliding pads (commonly used with furniture). The team created a composite, recycling even further with glass waste—obtained from shredded car windshields—refining both technological and wear-resistance properties and testing their results. Composites exhibited suitable layer adhesion, devoid of cracks or voids. The research team employed a mathematical model for feed rate and printing speed—discovering in this study that the higher modulus allowed for more rapid printing, but also offered greater potential in defects due to the speed. Higher crystallinity was also found, but only slightly and ‘close to the error limit.’ The addition of the recycled glass was a suitable ‘reinforcement’ according to the researchers, who found that it did strengthen wear resistance further.
Composites have become not only an interesting area of focus for 3D printing users but also a useful one as researchers and developers strengthen materials with wire composites, reinforced carbon fiber, and PLA. What do you think of this news? Let us know your thoughts! Join the discussion of this and other 3D printing topics at 3DPrintBoard.com. [Source / Images: ‘ Preliminary Characterization of Novel LDPE-Based Wear-Resistant Composite Suitable for FDM 3D Printing’] Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Printing via 3DPrint.com | The Voice of 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing https://3dprint.com August 27, 2019 at 06:21AM
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