Effect of graphene nanoparticle dispersion on the cure and mechanical properties of a 3D printing resin

Abstract The objective is to investigate the post‐curing effect on 3D acrylic resin and its graphene nanocomposites, evaluating changes in mechanical and thermal properties, as well as comparing two mixing routes (with and without solvent) to understand the influence of each method on the conversion of acrylate groups. The liquid crystal display technique was employed. It was observed that the dispersion of nanoparticles influenced the degree of conversion of the acrylic resin, with higher rates being obtained for the nanocomposites prepared via acetone dispersion. The same trend was observed for the glass transition temperature (Tg) values; a 7°C reduction was noted for samples with agglomerates. The post‐curing time of the acrylic resin influenced the mechanical results, with a 600% increase in Young's modulus (E) in the sample without post‐curing compared to the 2 h and 4 h post‐cured samples. Regarding the nanocomposites, the presence of acetone influenced the results, with an increase of up to 14% for graphene dispersed in resin and a decrease of approximately 4% for the 4 h post‐cure. However, despite concerns regarding acetone's influence on the results, it was observed that graphene dispersed in the matrix contributed to a 33% increase in toughness compared to dispersion in resin.