Influence of Carbon Nano fibre Addition on Mechanical Behaviour of PLA Based 3D Printed Polymer Nano composites

This study investigates the mechanical properties of carbon nanofiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites produced by Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM). Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) and carbon nanofiber were combined at the following weight percentages: 0%, 1%, 2%, and 3%. The method of twin screw extrusion was utilised in the making of FDM-compatible composite filaments. The tensile properties of virgin PLA and PLA combined with carbon nanofiber were evaluated. It was discovered that adding carbon nanofiber significantly increased the material's tensile strength. The key to achieving the desirable properties observed here was the uniform distribution of carbon nanofibers throughout the PLA matrix. The mechanisms underlying the enhancement of the mechanical properties of PLA/carbon nanofiber composites have been thoroughly investigated. The addition of 3% carbon nanofibers to PLA increased the material's tensile strength by 23.3%, its yield strength by 20%, and decreased its elongation by 38.1%. © The Institution of Engineers (India) 2023.