TAGS: 3D Printing Green and Bioplastics
Researchers from Kaunas University of Technology and Vilnius University synthesized and tested a bio-based resin for optical 3D printing (O3DP). The bio-based resin made from renewable raw materials proved to be universal for both table-top 3D printers and state-of-the-art ultrafast laser, suitable for O3DP in the scales from nano- to macro- dimensions. This, according to the researchers, is a unique property for a single photo-resin.
Resin Suitable for Multi-scale 3D Printing
The universal bio-based resin developed by KTU researchers can be used for a
multi-scale 3D printing. Up to now, no single resin was developed which would allow manufacturing of ultra-fine nano-/micro-features and macro-objects out of the same composition
During the experiment conducted by VU researchers, a multi-scale (up to 5 orders) optical 3D printing of bio-based compound was performed using both state-of-the-art laser nanolithography setup and a common table-top 3D printer. Additionally, chess-like figures were made in an industrial line commercially delivering small batch production services (3D Creative). The bio-based photo-resin proved suitable for all applications without any further modifications.
Investigating the Material for Different Properties
The novel bio-based photo-resin was developed at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU). The research group working at the KTU Department of Polymer Chemistry and Technology designed formulations of photo-curable resins for optical 3D printing, as well as synthesized, characterized and investigated the rheological, mechanical, thermal properties of polymer materials obtained from these resins.
“
Currently, only thermoplastic bio-based polymers used in thermal 3D printing technology are commercially available. KTU scientists have developed a bio-based photo-curable resin which can be used for optical 3D printing. Bio-based photo-curable resins for such technologies are not currently available on the market”, says Dr. Jolita Ostrauskaitė.
The biggest advantage of the novel bio-based photo-curable resin is the ability to obtain their components from renewable raw materials, moreover, these components can be purchased in commercially large quantities.
Although the novel bio-based photo-resin is not commercialized yet, the researchers claim that it could be used immediately on demand in industrial lines as it was shown to be compatible with commercially available setups of JSC 3D Creative. As the developed material is still very new, further investigation is needed for its safe and economical use in industry.
Source: Kaunas University of Technology