Through the variation of various printing parameters, such as layer thickness, orientation, and infill pattern, the mechanical properties of 3D printed PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol-modified) dogbone samples were altered. Properties were measured using an Instron tensile tester, with tensile strength and elastic modulus being the properties of focus. Tensile strength was found to increase with layer thickness, and samples printed in the orientation of tensile testing exhibited stronger mechanical properties in that direction. Additionally, mechanical properties of PETG and polylactic acid (PLA) 3D printed samples were compared. The adhesion strength between layers of these two polymers was also investigated by creating samples consisting of a lower PETG layer and an upper PLA layer. Tensile testing was performed to determine the strength of this inter-polymer connection. Exposure to a mutual solvent was used in attempt to increase the adhesive strength between the two layers. Enhancing the mechanical properties of 3D printed objects to approach that of the feed material would greatly enhance their reliability and strength. Additionally, improving the properties of multi-component 3D printed objects could greatly enhance the utility of 3D printing.

Effects of printing parameters and adhesion on mechanical properties of 3D printed samples

254th National Meeting (2017)

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