Interface geometries in 3D multi-material prints by fused filament fabrication

Abstract

Purpose: An issue when printing multi-material objects is understanding how different materials will perform together, especially because interfaces between them are always created. This paper aims to address this interface from a mechanical perspective and evaluates how it should be designed for a better mechanical performance. Design/methodology/approach: Different interface mechanisms were considered, namely, microscopic interfaces that are based on chemical bonding and were represented with a U-shape interface; a macroscopic interface characterized by a mechanical interlocking mechanism, represented by a T-shape interface; and a mesoscopic interface that sits between other interface systems and that was represented by a dovetail shape geometry. All these different interfaces were tested in two different material sets, namely, poly (lactic acid)–poly (lactic acid) and poly (lactic acid)–thermoplastic polyurethane material pairs. These two sets represent high- and low-compatibility materials sets, respectively. Findings: The results showed, despite the materials’ compatibility level, multi-material objects will have a better mechanical performance through a macroscopic interface, as it is based on a mechanical interlocking system, of which performance cannot be achieved by a simple face-to-face interface even when considering the same material. Originality/value: The paper investigates the importance of interface design in multi-material 3D prints by fused filament fabrication. Especially, for parts intended to be subjected to mechanical efforts, simple face-to-face interfaces are not sufficient and more robust and macroscopic-based interface geometries (based on mechanical interlocking systems) are advised. Moreover, such interfaces do not raise esthetic problems because of their working principle; the 3D printing technology can hide the interface geometries, if required.