Investigations into 4D printed PLA/graphite composite with thermal induced shape memory effect
ISSN: 1355-2546
Article publication date: 8 July 2024
Issue publication date: 30 July 2024
Abstract
Purpose
The paper aims to fabricate shape memory composites using polylactic acid (PLA) matrix and graphite. Shape memory polymers are a promising family of materials for biomedical applications because of their favourable mechanical properties, fast reactions and good biocompatibility. For most SMPs, however, achieving controllable sequential shape change is challenging.
Design/methodology/approach
In the present work, 4D printing technology is used to fabricate shape memory composites using polylactic acid (PLA) matrix and graphite. A comparative study of pure PLA and graphite’s different weight % composition has been done.
Findings
By carefully managing the deformation state, PLA with graphite shape memory composites produced controllable sequential deformation with an amazing shape memory effect. Surface morphology, thermal properties, melt flow index and shape recovery tests have all been carried out to assess the qualities of manufactured samples.
Originality/value
This is a one-of-a-kind to fabricate shape memory composites using graphite and a PLA matrix. Thus, this research attempts to deliver the possible use of PLA/graphite composites fabricated using 4D printing in robotics and biomedical devices.
Graphical Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The first author would like to acknowledge Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee for providing Institute Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the Department of Design.
Citation
Arora, K., Kumar, M. and Sharma, V. (2024), "Investigations into 4D printed PLA/graphite composite with thermal induced shape memory effect", Rapid Prototyping Journal, Vol. 30 No. 7, pp. 1313-1321. https://doi.org/10.1108/RPJ-12-2023-0429
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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