Enhanced Mechanical Properties and Surface Finish of PLA 3D Prints via Combined Heat Annealing and Powder Coating
Source abstract
Abstract
In this study, we investigate a novel post-processing approach combining heat annealing and powder coating to enhance both the mechanical performance and surface finish of polylactic acid (PLA) 3D-printed components. Previous work demonstrated that annealing PLA at temperatures between 100 and 120 °C significantly improves its mechanical properties. Building on this, we explore the effects of applying medium-density fiberboard (MDF) powder coating, which cures at a similar temperature range, to simultaneously improve the material’s surface aesthetics. Test specimens were printed with identical parameters and subjected to heat treatment at 120 °C for varying durations (0 to 15 min, in one-minute intervals). Additional observations included dimensional stability and surface uniformity. The results indicate a clear correlation between post-processing time and improvements in both strength and surface appearance, with optimal outcomes observed between 5 and 8 min of curing. This combined post-processing method provides a cost-effective and accessible way to enhance part performance and aesthetics, thereby expanding the applications of PLA-based additive manufacturing, particularly in functional and design-focused use cases.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Technologies · Photopolymerization techniques and applications · Bone Tissue Engineering Materials
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Faculty of Civil Engineering and Management, University Union Nikola Tesla, 11120 Belgrade, Serbia
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Montenegro, Dzordza Vasingtona bb, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Montenegro, Dzordza Vasingtona bb, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro
Faculty of Economics, University of Montenegro, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro
Faculty of Management Herceg Novi, University Adriatik, Zemunska 143, 85348 Meljine, Montenegro
References (23)
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