Strong hydroxide solutions have positive effects on the conductivity of PLA-based conductive 3D printing filaments. The resistance of 3D printed electrodes printed from conductive filaments from two manufacturers decreases considerably after hydroxide treatment. This allows for specialized printing of conductive electrodes for use in electrochemical cells. Due to the strong nature of concentrated hydroxide solutions, we desired a safer yet equally as effective method to increase PLA-graphene filament conductivity. The electrolysis of water can be used to generate H+ and OH–. Because hydroxide can be used for PLA degradation, we suspected a 3D printed electrode could be used in place of a carbon rod or glassy carbon electrode in an electrolysis system. We hypothesized the current flow through the electrode would produce OH– ions which would in turn degrade the PLA without use of harsh chemicals. Electrolysis conditions were varied and optimized conditions yielded a significantly lower resistance when compared to untreated electrodes. This low hazard and highly accessible method enables the use of 3D printed electrodes by more people for a variety of different electrochemical applications.

Improved electrochemical performance of fused filament fabrication 3D printed electrodes using hydroxide treatment methods

2019 Spring National Meeting

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