Recovery of residual polyamide (PA12) from polymer powder bed fusion additive manufacturing process through a binder jetting process
ISSN: 1355-2546
Article publication date: 3 May 2024
Issue publication date: 17 May 2024
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to propose the reuse of PA12 (powder) in another AM process, binder jettiinng, which is less sensitive to the chemical and mechanical degradation of the powder after multiple cycles in the laser system.
Design/methodology/approach
The experimental process for evaluating the reuse of SLS powders in a subsequent binder jetting process consists of four phases: powder characterization, bonding analysis, mixture testing and mixture characteristics. Analyses were carried out using techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and stress–strain tests for tension and compression. The surface roughness, color, hardness and density of the new mixture were also determined to find physical characteristics. A Taguchi design L8 was used to search for a mixture with the best mechanical strength.
Findings
The results indicated that the integration of waste powder PA12 with calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CSH) generates appropriate particle distribution with rounded particles of PA12 that improve powder flowability. The micropores observed with less than 60 µm, facilitated binder and infiltrant penetration on 3D parts. The 60/40 (CSH-PA12) mixture with epoxy resin postprocessing was found to be the best-bonded mixture in mechanical testing, rugosity and hardness results. The new CSH-PA12 mixture resulted lighter and stronger than the CSH powder commonly used in binder jetting technology.
Originality/value
This study adds value to the polymer powder bed fusion process by using its waste in a circular process. The novel reuse of PA12 waste in an established process was achieved in an accessible and economical manner.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to express their gratitude to Jonathan Juárez and Samuel Burgos for their valuable contribution to the 3D printing experiments conducted at the CAPA facilities. Authors also extend their appreciation to the materials department and CICTA center at the Autonomous University of Ciudad Juarez for providing the necessary laboratory infrastructure and support.
Citation
Balderrama-Armendariz, C.O., Arbelaez-Rios, S.E., Martel-Estrada, S.-A., Maldonado-Macias, A.A., MacDonald, E. and Aguilar-Duque, J.I. (2024), "Recovery of residual polyamide (PA12) from polymer powder bed fusion additive manufacturing process through a binder jetting process", Rapid Prototyping Journal, Vol. 30 No. 5, pp. 970-986. https://doi.org/10.1108/RPJ-05-2023-0177
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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