Study on preparation and properties of wood-CO-PES/tourmaline composites (WPTC) by selective laser sintering (SLS)

Purpose The purpose of this study is to develop a novel functional SLS feedstock utilizing wood processing residues for high-value applications, and to investigate the influence of process parameters and tourmaline content on the properties of the sintered wood-CO-PES/tourmaline composites, with a focus on evaluating their negative oxygen ion release performance for air quality improvement. Design/methodology/approach The authors meticulously prepared wood-co-polyester (CO-PES)/tourmaline composite material (WPTC) powder and applied it to the selective laser sintering (SLS) process. The microstructural transformation of the WPTC during sintering was analyzed in detail. The composites were comprehensively characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, dimensional accuracy tests, scanning electron microscopy and mechanical property tests. Additionally, a negative ion tester was used to evaluate the negative oxygen ion release performance of the sintered samples containing tourmaline powder by measuring the concentration of negative oxygen ions in the air. Findings It was found that the incorporation of tourmaline enhanced the release of negative ions, with a 3% tourmaline content exhibiting a superior release quantity of 3.62 × 105 cm−3 compared to 5% and 7% content, which had released quantities of 3.57 × 105 and 1.08 × 105 cm−3, respectively. The optimal process parameters were identified as follows: preheating temperature of 80°C, laser power of 40 W, scanning speed of 800 mm·s-1, hatch spacing of 0.2 mm and layer thickness of 0.1 mm. Under these conditions, the relative densities of sintered parts exceed 90%, and the mechanical properties meeting the requirements of modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity. Practical implications This study has successfully achieved high-value utilization of wood processing residues, leading to a significant enhancement in the environmental performance and negative oxygen ion releasing function of SLS feedstock. Originality/value These findings imply potential applications across various industries, particularly in home furnishings and artware, offering enhanced air quality and potential health benefits.