Effect of filler content on mechanical properties of 3D printed conductive ABS–ZnO polymer composites

Abstract

The aim of this research is to improve the mechanical properties of 3D-printed conductive ABS through addition of ZnO filler and changes in the print settings. ZnO powder was mixed with ABS/acetone solution to reduce agglomeration. Powder dispenser was used to disperse ZnO into the polymer matrix. Elastic modulus, micro-hardness, storage modulus for rectilinear print pattern, and density increased with increase in ZnO content. ZnO has higher density and rigidity when compared to the polymer matrix. Elastic modulus at 5wt% ZnO increased up to 14.99% when compared to 0wt% ZnO. However, tensile strength dropped about 0.13% to 6.09%, while break elongation dropped less than 1%. SEM micrographs showed agglomeration of ZnO on the fractured surfaces, indicating poor adhesion between ZnO and the polymer matrix. Mechanical properties can be altered by changing the print settings. Tensile strengths above 10MPa were obtained at 0x pattern spacing due to higher contact point between successive print rasters. Linear print pattern which reduce stress accumulation obtained tensile strengths above 10MPa, while rectilinear print pattern with smaller interlayer porosity resulted in elastic moduli within 700MPa to 900MPa. This study shows that 3D-printed composite is a viable way to enhance the mechanical properties of 3D-printed component for engineering applications.