There is strong interest in developing nano and micro composites for 3D printing that include cellulose. The cellulosic material can provide mechanical properties, moisture interaction properties, optical and textural properties that are unique. This research examines the use of PLA as a matrix material and nano and micro particles derived from recycled cotton fabrics at different loadings. The materials are evaluated in 3D printed applications. A twin screw extruder was used to compound the PLA and cotton particles. The resulting materials were then formed into filaments (or films), characterized, and then printed with a 3D printer. Loadings of 31% cotton were able to be compounded. Filaments of up to 20% cotton loading were successfully used in a 3D printer and parts produced. The structure of the nano and micro composite materials and the mechanical properties of the film and 3D printed parts are reported herein.

Micro and nano composites using cotton materials loaded in polylactic acid and applications in 3D printing

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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