Parametric optimization of intra‐ and inter‐layer strengths in parts produced by extrusion‐based additive manufacturing of poly(lactic acid)

• DOI: 10.1002/app.45401
• Publication Date: 2017-06-26T09:10:41Z
• Authors: Martin Spoerk; Florian Arbeiter; Hrvoje Cajner; Janak Sapkota; Clemens Holzer
• Keywords: Cohesion (chemistry); Layer by layer

ABSTRACT Parts produced by extrusion‐based additive manufacturing experience the disadvantage of consisting many weld‐lines, which consequently downgrade their mechanical properties. This work aims at maximizing strength printed parts considering and improving intra‐ inter‐layer cohesion between adjacent strands. Therefore, poly(lactic acid) specimens were characterized means a particular tensile test setup, was evaluated double cantilever beam test. A detailed parametric statistical evaluation, included printing temperatures, layer thicknesses, layer‐designs, complemented material's viscosity data analysis specimens' fracture surfaces cross‐sections. An optimal layer‐design found to be key parameter in optimization with regard different loading directions. Additionally, maximization leads tremendous improvement performance parts, resulting strengths roughly 90% those compression‐molded parts. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. , 134 45401.