3D-printing of lightweight cellular composites

Brett G Compton; Jennifer A Lewis

doi:10.1002/adma.201401804

3D-printing of lightweight cellular composites

Adv Mater. 2014 Sep 10;26(34):5930-5. doi: 10.1002/adma.201401804. Epub 2014 Jun 18.

Authors

Brett G Compton¹, Jennifer A Lewis

Affiliation

¹ School of Engineering and Applies Sciences, Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University Cambridge, MA, 02318, USA.

PMID: 24942232
DOI: 10.1002/adma.201401804

Abstract

A new epoxy-based ink is reported, which enables 3D printing of lightweight cellular composites with controlled alignment of multiscale, high-aspectratio fiber reinforcement to create hierarchical structures inspired by balsa wood. Young's modulus values up to 10 times higher than existing commercially available 3D-printed polymers are attainable, while comparable strength values are maintained.

Keywords: 3D printing; cellular; epoxy; fiber composite; honeycomb.

Publication types

Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

Biomimetic Materials / chemistry*
Bombacaceae
Elastic Modulus
Epoxy Compounds / chemistry*
Ink*
Materials Testing
Polymers / chemistry
Printing, Three-Dimensional*
Tensile Strength
Viscosity

Substances

Epoxy Compounds
Polymers