Improving 3D printability and interlayer adhesion in ABS/PP immiscible polymer blends

Abstract

AbstractPrintability and interlayer adhesion are the most critical issues in 3D printing of immiscible polymer blends. It can affect structural integrity and mechanical performance of the printed parts. In this work, an effective strategy to improve the printability and interlayer adhesion of immiscible acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene/polypropylene (ABS/PP) blends was implemented by introducing styrene–ethylene/butylene–styrene copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride (SEBS‐g‐MA) as a compatibilizer. The printability of the developed blends was investigated using rheological properties such as absolute value of complex viscosity, loss tangent and die‐swell ratio. Interestingly, it was found that the additive manufactured blends with 20 wt% SEBS‐g‐MA loading showed improved interlaminar shear strength, impact strength, Young's modulus and toughness as compared with the pure blend. Fractography analysis revealed that two different possible failure mechanisms, interface and matrix failure were apparent in the 3D printed samples with and without SEBS‐g‐MA content. This work provides a promising pathway to fabricate the complex structures from polymer blends with improved mechanical properties and surface finish.Highlights This study demonstrated improved interlayer adhesion at the printed interface of immiscible ABS/PP blends in presence of SEBS‐g‐MA. The printability of the developed blends was predicted from rheological properties. Additive manufactured blends with SEBS‐g‐MA loading showed improved mechanical performance.