Abstract
Abstract In construction, additive manufacturing (AM) can be used to create structural or non-structural elements, such as frameworks, reinforcement, or panels. However, AM technology still requires enhancements for the mechanical response of final 3D printed elements to accommodate the mechanical needs of structural components. This paper evaluates various AM process parameters and bioinspired printing patterns to improve the mechanical performance of 3D printed polymeric elements. AM processes, including printing speed and nozzle diameter, are studied. Bioinspired patterns, including Bouligand-like, alternating, sinusoidal, grid, triangular, and hexagonal, are investigated and compared to simple parallel patterns. Results of this study suggest that the mechanical behavior of 3D printed elements can be significantly enhanced by optimizing the printing speed and nozzle diameter. Incorporating bioinspired architectures in AM, such as the Bouligand pattern, are shown to enhance mechanical performance. Slower speeds and larger nozzle diameters result in higher tensile strength. Continuous and twisting patterns yield more ductility, while patterns parallel to the direction of the tensile test result in higher strengths. Microscopic images from the fracture surface indicate that a larger nozzle diameter enhances intra- and interlayer bonding between consequent printed layers. Additionally, more complex crack propagation is observed in twisting patterns with enhanced elongation before total failure. It is also observed that there is an optimal time of exposure to high temperature for deposited materials during AM to improve bonding between adjacent beads. Bioinspired patterns help maintain higher ductility with similar strength despite encompassing higher porosity than parallel patterns, which could be advantageous for material optimization purposes. The bioinspired 3D printed polymeric elements showed tensile properties higher than those of plain polymer filament. The outcome of this study can help optimize both the process and the architecture of 3D printed elements to enhance their mechanical properties to be used as reinforcing elements for reinforced concrete applications.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
