Evaluation of 3D Printable Sustainable Composites

Polylactic acid (PLA) is rapidly becoming the mainstay material for use in desktop grade 3D printers based on FDM technology in part due to the environmental sustainability of this polymer. While biodegradability is an advantage; as compared to other materials used by FDM-type platforms, there is a lack of desirable physical attributes. The work presented here evaluates the altering of the physical properties of PLA through the addition of sustainable additives. Here, the physical properties of PLA were modified while, at the same time the two desirable aspects of 3D printer compatibility and biodegradability were retained. Rheological analysis of the material systems was performed by dynamic mechanical analysis and failure analysis of 3D printed tensile specimens was carried out through the use of scanning electron microscopy. Finally, biodegradability of the novel PLA-based material systems was assessed based on in-soil exposure testing.Mechanical Engineerin