Mechanical and Thermal Characterization of Additively Manufactured CNT/PLA Nanocomposites

In this study, polylactic acid ((PLA) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were combined using a solvent casting method to create a homogeneous mixture of polymer nanocomposites. CNT with 1, 3 and 5 weight% were added to the PLA matrix. Afterwards, these mixtures were used to extrude filament of 1.75 mm diameter. The chemical characteristic, thermal stability, compressive strength, yield strength, modulus, and compressive strength at 30% of deformation of the printed 3D part using an extrusion-based 3D printer were investigated. MWCNT/PLA nanocomposites and PLA have comparable crystallinities. Melting and crystallization temperatures of PLA nanocomposites are increased with the addition of MWCNT content. Peak stress, yield strength, and modulus are all shown to increase in the prints up to 3% MWCNT before declining. These results reveal the potential of these nanocomposites for applications needing high mechanical strength and good thermal properties.