Effect of UV-C Radiation on 3D Printed ABS-PC Polymers

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted critical shortages in personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical supplies.
• 3D printing emerged as a rapid fabrication solution for essential medical equipment.
• Sterilization using ultraviolet C (UV-C) light is a potential method for reusing 3D printed medical parts, but polymer degradation is a concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of UV-C radiation on the mechanical properties of 3D printed acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and polycarbonate (ABS-PC) blends.
• To determine the suitability of ABS-PC for medical applications requiring UV-C sterilization and potential reuse.

Main Methods:

• Samples were 3D printed using the material extrusion (MEX) process.
• Accelerated aging was performed via a 24-hour UV-C exposure cycle.
• Mechanical properties including tensile strength, compressive strength, and creep characteristics were tested.
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze microstructural changes.

Main Results:

• Tensile strength remained statistically unchanged after UV-C exposure.
• A slight decrease in stiffness (5.2%) and compressive strength (6.5%) was observed.
• SEM analysis indicated no significant structural changes in the material.

Conclusions:

• 3D printed ABS-PC parts exhibit good resistance to UV-C radiation, with minimal impact on key mechanical properties.
• This study supports the potential reusability of 3D printed ABS-PC components in medical settings after UV-C sterilization.
• Further research could explore long-term effects and other 3D printing materials for medical applications.