3D-printable CFR polymer composites with dual-cure sequential IPNs. (17th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Griffini, Gianmarco; Invernizzi, Marta; Levi, Marinella; Natale, Gabriele; Postiglione, Giovanni; Turri, Stefano
• Is Part Of: Polymer. Volume 91(2016)
• Page Start: 174
• Page End: 179
• Publication Date: 2016-05-17
• Subjects: Interpenetrating polymer network -- Composite -- 3D-printing; Polymers -- Periodicals; Polymerization -- Periodicals; Polymères -- Périodiques; Polymérisation -- Périodiques; 547.7
• DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2016.03.048
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-3861

Abstract

Abstract: In this work a sequential interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) obtained by co-formulation of a photocurable acrylic resin with a thermocurable epoxy resin is presented and proposed as matrix for the fabrication of carbon-fiber reinforced (CFR) composite structures by means of 3D-printing technology. This approach combines the advantages of the easy free-form fabrication typical of the 3D-printing technology with the purposely customized features of the newly developed IPN material. Photocalorimetric and dynamic-mechanical analyses were performed in order to investigate the photo- and thermal-crosslinking reactions and their effect on the development of the IPN system. The IPN resin was finally loaded with carbon fibers and successfully ultraviolet-assisted (UV)-3D printed, demonstrating the possibility of fabricating CFR composite materials in 3D with excellent mechanical properties. Being the first example of direct fabrication of IPN-based composites by 3D printing, this study clearly shows the great potential of this additive manufacturing technology for advanced industrial applications. Graphical abstract: