Multifunctional property analysis of 3D ‐printed composite scaffolds from PLA / PCL filaments with graphene oxide reinforcement

Abstract This study investigates the multifunctional properties of three‐dimensional (3D)‐printed Polylactic acid (PLA) and Poly‐ε‐caprolactone (PCL) scaffolds reinforced with graphene oxide (GO) for advanced biomedical applications utilizing the fused filament fabrication method. PLA/PCL (80:20) was selected for its balance of stiffness and flexibility, while GO was incorporated at varying concentrations (0.5 weight percent (wt%), 1, 2, and 3 wt%). Composite filaments were produced through melt blending and extrusion, with subsequent 3D printing to create scaffolds. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis at 1 wt% GO revealed optimal functional group interactions. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis showed significantly enhanced thermal stability and crystallinity, while mechanical tests demonstrated 41.9% and 15% improvements in tensile and compressive strengths, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy analysis indicated morphological differences in the PLA/PCL matrix with increasing GO content. Rheological analysis indicated that lower GO concentrations led to an optimal viscosity, enhancing processability and maintaining structural integrity, with 1 wt% providing the best balance between ease of flow and mechanical stability. These findings highlight the potential of GO‐reinforced PLA/PCL scaffolds for biomedical applications, identifying 1 wt% GO as the optimal concentration for achieving superior thermal, mechanical, and rheological properties. Highlights GO‐reinforced PLA/PCL filaments were successfully produced for scaffolds. GO enhances PLA/PCL scaffold strength, stability, and processability. 1 wt% GO improves thermal, mechanical, and rheological properties. GO boosts thermal stability, crystallinity, and structural integrity. SEM reveals PLA/PCL matrix changes with increasing GO content.