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Interplay between Shelf Life and Printability of Silica-Filled Suspensions
Xavier M Torres1, John R Stockdale1, Santosh Adhikari1
1Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545, USA.
Polymers
|November 14, 2023
Summary
Hydrophobic fumed silica suspensions maintain printability over time, unlike hydrophilic ones. Optimal storage for additive manufacturing inks involves low humidity, low temperatures, and higher silica concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Additive Manufacturing
Background:
- Fumed silica/siloxane suspensions are widely used in additive manufacturing.
- The impact of shelf life and storage on suspension printability remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between storage conditions, shelf life, and the printability of fumed silica/siloxane suspensions.
- To determine optimal formulations and storage parameters for direct ink writing (DIW) applications.
Main Methods:
- Formulation of suspensions with varying concentrations of hydrophobic and hydrophilic fumed silica.
- Evaluation of suspensions over 30 days under different relative humidity (8%, 50%) and temperature (4°C, 25°C) conditions.
- Assessment of print quality using rheology, optical microscopy, and mechanical testing.
Main Results:
- Hydrophilic fumed silica suspensions showed a significant decrease in printability over time.
- Hydrophobic fumed silica suspensions maintained their printability after storage.
- Printability degradation was more pronounced under high humidity and temperature conditions.
Conclusions:
- Hydrophobic fumed silica is recommended over hydrophilic fumed silica for improved shelf life in DIW suspensions.
- Storage in low humidity and low temperature environments is crucial for maintaining suspension printability.
- Higher fumed silica concentrations contribute to extended shelf life and better printability.
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