We describe the preparation of mechanoresponsive 3D-printed structures using an entry level fused filament fabrication printer. Using a dual extrusion setup, filament comprised of poly(ε-caprolactone) containing a spiropyran mechanophore was used to prepare tensile test specimens containing various spiropyran concentrations, spiropyran control molecules, multiple materials, or mechanoresponsive regions embedded within the specimen. Upon tensile elongation, the materials exhibited distinct color changes that are attributed to mechanochemical isomerization of the spiropyran mechanophore. By taking advantage of the unique capabilities of 3D printing, materials were produced that would be difficult, if not impossible, to prepare using traditional manufacturing techniques. Additionally, the combination of 3D printing and mechanoresponsive materials enabled the fabrication of a prototype force sensor that can be used for quantitative force determination by simply counting activated mechanoresponsive regions within the sensor.

3D printing of mechanochromic polycaprolactone on entry-level printers

249th National Meeting (2015)

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