Process-structure–property relationships following thermo-oxidative exposure of powder bed fusion printed poly(phenylene sulfide)

Abstract

Powder bed fusion (PBF) manufacturing with high-value polymers, like poly(phenylene sulfide) (PPS), are of current interest to many industries. Inconsistent part properties when reusing powder is one barrier preventing adoption of PBF. This manuscript compares changes in polymer structure and mechanical properties resulting from simulated application via thermo-oxidative exposure for new and re-used PBF printed PPS. Similar printed part density from both powder ages was achieved by compensating for differences between new and reused powders through adjusted print settings. Thermomechanical properties were observed to change less for parts made with re-used PPS powder compared with as-received powder following thermo-oxidative exposure.