Vat polymerization additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, allows for the unparalleled combination of chemistry with complex 3D structure design to dictate and tune the properties of polymer objects. In particular, novel resins and architectures are being developed that expand the materials space to soft, elastomeric polymers capable of reforming after external mechanical loads and impacts. These materials are important for protective equipment in the military, sports, automotive, and other industries. However, the ultimate goal is to develop a material with high energy absorption and high stiffness, properties that are general mutually exclusive. Nature has mastered this property by creating gradients of hard and soft materials, like those found in bones, shells, and mussel filaments. We have developed a unique method of incorporating multiple materials into 3D printed objects and creating bio-inspired designs to tune the mechanical properties using vat polymerization and controlled photopolymerization of resins in desired locations. The polymer objects with this novel multi-polymer morphology exhibit improved toughness and energy absorption efficiency while preventing fracture. The combination of tunable chemistry and 3D printed architecture design together broaden the material properties achievable for impact attenuating soft materials.

3D printing of stiff and tough polymers with unique morphology for improved impact protection

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ACS Spring 2023

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.