Mechanical investigation of compositing by resin filling in lattice structures manufactured with fused deposition modelling

Abstract

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a widely used polymer additive manufacturing technique for polymer part manufacturing and prototyping. However, manufacturing speed, mechanical properties, and high costs, limit its suitability for industrial applications. In this study, researchers blended polyester and polyurethane resins with lattice structures to achieve a remarkable 70% reduction in production time and a 75% decrease in manufacturing costs. They explored five lattice structure geometries relevant to common literature applications. Lattice structures were manufactured using PA, PLA, PA-CF, and TPU filaments. The composite samples underwent comprehensive analysis, including SEM microscopic inspections, density measurements, and compression tests. Parameters such as density, yield strength, compressive strength, specific stress, modulus of elasticity, and toughness were evaluated. The findings revealed that polyester-based composites exhibited a remarkable 131% enhancement in mechanical properties, with toughness values increasing up to 12-fold. The results revealed significant mechanical advantages that the developed composites can offer in applications.