Investigating Mechanical and Wear Properties of CaCO3 Filled PP Composite Filament Production for 3D Printer

Abstract

Recently, the interest in 3D printers, which is one of the polymer-based material production methods, and the amount of production in the sector are increasing day by day. It is clearly seen that 3D printers, which were used as hobby devices in the beginning, have evolved from being hobby devices to industrial production devices. When current studies are examined, it is clearly observed that not only pure polymers, but also composite materials are used in 3D printers. In this study, Pure PP and various weight filling ratio CaCO3 filled PP composite filaments were produced. Wear test and three-point bending test specimens were produced by 3D printer. When the mechanical test results were examined, it was determined that the flexural strength of the composite samples was affected adversely. The wear test results showed that the particle reinforcement reduced the friction coefficient by making a lubricating effect on the surface. The wear volume of the composite samples decreased by approximately 40% compared to pure PP. As a result, it has been seen that composite samples can be produced with some compromise in strength in applications requiring high wear resistance and low friction. Especially when it is considered that there is a ratio of approximately 1/10 between the prices of matrix and reinforcement materials, composite filament gains more importance in order to reduce the cost of the final product.