Investigation on hardness, impact, and compression responses of additively manufactured functionally graded nanocomposites. (April 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kumar, Sumodh; Ramesh, M.R.; Doddamani, Mrityunjay
• Is Part Of: Composites communications. Volume 39(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-04
• Subjects: 3D printing -- Nanocomposites -- HDPE -- MWCNT -- Functionally graded nanocomposites
• DOI: 10.1016/j.coco.2023.101545
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2452-2139

Abstract

Abstract: Functionally graded nanocomposites (FGNCs) are fabricated using 3D printing for hardness, impact and compression investigations with different wt. % (0.5⟶H0.5, 1⟶H1, 3⟶H3, 5⟶H5) of functionalized MWCNTs in high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Further, they are extruded as feedstock filament for 3D printing. The hardness, impact strength, and compressive properties increase while the energy absorption decreases with a % increase in the functionalized MWCNTs. The highest hardness, impact strength, compressive moduli, and strength observed for FGNC-2 (H1⟶H3⟶H5) are 76.80, 119.99, 61.14, and 11.56%, respectively, higher than HDPE. The betterment in the mechanical properties is attributed to the strengthening and stiffening effects due to the homogeneous distribution of the functionalized MWCNTs in HDPE. The FGNC-2 exhibited the highest mechanical properties, and can be used in various applications wherein variational stiffness is required. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Functionally graded nanocomposites are 3D printing for the first time. The micrographs reveal the seamless bonding across the gradation. The highest hardness and impact strength are observed for FGNC-2. The highest compressive modulus and strength are observed for FGNC-2. Geometrically complex integrated components can be used in a host of applications wherein variational stiffness is required.