Effects of wood composition in 3D printing of wood-polylactic acid composites

• Main Author: Lim, Sean Zhi Xuan
• Other Authors: Paulo Jorge Da Silva Bartolo
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2024
• Subjects: Engineering
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/177767
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This study explores the effects of wood composition on the thermal properties, mechanical strength, and microstructural characteristics of wood-polylactic acid (wood-PLA) composites utilized in 3D printing. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were employed to analyse composites with varying wood concentrations (5%, 7.5%, and 10% by weight). The DSC analysis revealed that wood additives increase the glass transition temperature (Tg) of PLA and affect both crystallization and melting behaviours. The TGA results showed that the addition of wood lowers the onset of thermal degradation and increases residue after decomposition, suggesting enhanced char formation. SEM images provided insight into surface textures and internal structures, indicating that higher wood content leads to increased porosity and surface irregularities which may influence mechanical properties. Flexural strength testing demonstrated that PLA's mechanical properties are superior to wood composites; however, the addition of PLA to wood increases the stiffness and strength of the material. The printability analysis using SEM further revealed the relationship between wood content and print quality, with higher concentrations presenting challenges for layer adhesion and structural integrity. Overall, the research indicates that while the addition of wood to PLA presents several advantages such as improved aesthetic properties and potential biodegradability, it also introduces complexities in processing and material stability. The study suggests an optimal wood-PLA balance that can serve specific applications, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional 3D printing materials.