Additive manufacturing, commonly termed 3D printing, enables the reproducible fabrication of complex architectures with unprecedented precision. However, design and synthesis of photopolymers for 3D printing with stereolithography (SLA) is crucial in the development of advanced technologies. A unique synthetic approach involving simultaneous photo-polymerization and crosslinking during 3D printing helps overcome traditional SLA material challenges. This novel approach combines processing advantages of low molecular weight systems with tunable (thermo) mechanical performance similar to high molecular weight polymer networks. With addition of photo-initiator, the liquid oligomer resin cures selectively under UV exposure to form uniquely high-strain, elastic parts in comparison to neat diacrylate systems. In concert with mask-projection micro-stereolithography (MPμSLA), the fabrication of well-defined elastomers is possible. Photo-DSC and photo-rheology elucidates curing behavior as a function of resin composition and UV intensity, while optical microscopy and SEM reveals quality and resolution. As a result, this work expands the capability of additive manufacturing by developing a solvent-free resin with the processability of an oligomer and the elastic properties of a higher molecular weight polymer.

High polymer elasticity from functional oligomers: Simultaneous growth and crosslinking in photopolymers

254th National Meeting (2017)

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