Abstract
With increasing concerns regarding plastic waste and pollution, researchers have been looking to develop advanced materials from biodegradable plastics. This study features the additive manufacturing of halochromic polylactic acid (PLA) filaments and the testing of halochromic properties of the specimens. PLA/polyethylene glycol (PEG)/bromocresol purple (BCP) compound was extruded and wound to produce a 3D printing filament. The halochromic responsiveness and colour reversibility were tested by exposing the samples to liquid and vaporized pH solutions for 30 min and then placing them back into ambient conditions for 48 h. The compatibility of PLA, PEG and BCP were found to be good, and the halochromic compound formed was homogenous. Dumbbell-shaped and rectangular specimens were successfully fabricated from the compound through 3D printing. Overall, the 3D printed halochromic PLA specimens show promising results and have proven their functionality as pH sensors which offers wide applications in many industries such as medical, environmental and packaging.
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