Thermal and mechanical properties of filaments for additive manufacturing^a

Abstract

This study explores the development of biodegradable filaments for additive manufacturing, aiming to create membranes for oil and water separation. Using a mixture of poly (lactic acid) and poly (butylene adipate co-terephthalate) (PLA/PBAT) with additives such as zinc oxide, biocide and carnauba wax. The research evaluates the potential of these materials in membrane prototyping for this application. Characterization techniques such as FTIR, XRD, DSC and tensile strength were employed. The results showed that the addition of the additives did not induce the formation of new bands in the FTIR. However, new diffraction peaks appeared in the composites indicating the presence of the zinc oxide. DSC revealed a double peak in melting and crystallization temperatures and the mechanical tests showed significant influence of additives on tensile strength. The composite filaments proved to be suitable for 3D printing, suggesting their applicability in the manufacture of filter membranes for oil and water separation.

Keywords:
additive manufacturing; material extrusion; zinc oxide; biocide; carnauba wax