Finite element analysis of synthetic and natural polymer blends made by 3D printing

The use of synthetic and natural polymer blends can increase the range of structures and properties of 3D printing (3DP) parts. This study investigates the blends specimen prepared using polyamide (PA12) and nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) with formic acid solution. The various composition mixtures were prepared. The processing conditions and their influence on mechanical properties of specimens manufactured were evaluated. The microstructural behaviour of the PA12/NCC blends material developed using scanning electron microscope. The mechanical properties are evaluated, as well as its biomechanical performance was observed. The static tests were performed to evaluate the compressive stress as well as Young's modulus. The porosity measurements were done using gas porosimeter to assess the strength. The finite element analysis was done to simulate the results obtained by experimentations. It was found that PA12/NCC blends had bone matching properties of goat. The overall performance of the PA12/NCC blend conforms that this can be an alternate material for implant applications. © 2020 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.