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Suitability of Polymers for 3D-Printing Laboratory Models for Shaking Table Experiments: Discussion and Indications
Paweł Boroń1, Grzegorz Budzik2, Joanna Maria Dulińska1
1Faculty of Civil Engineering, Cracow University of Technology, 31-155 Cracow, Poland.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|March 13, 2024
Summary
Seven 3D-printed polymers are suitable for dynamic shaking-table tests, offering reliable structural assessments. Material properties vary, but selected filaments enable accurate natural frequency determination and seismic performance evaluation for laboratory models.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Structural Engineering
- Additive Manufacturing
Background:
- 3D-printing technology enables the creation of complex laboratory models for structural dynamics.
- Evaluating the suitability of commercially available polymers for dynamic testing is crucial for reliable structural analysis.
- Existing research lacks comprehensive data on 3D-printed polymer model performance in shaking-table tests.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the suitability of seven 3D-printable polymers for laboratory models in dynamic shaking-table tests.
- To determine if 3D-printed polymer models are effective for dynamic assessments of structures.
- To provide insights for selecting appropriate filaments and planning reliable shaking-table tests.
Main Methods:
- Experimental characterization of polymer material properties: elastic modulus, mass density, and linear-elastic limit.
- Uniaxial tensile, compression, and three-point loading tests were conducted.
- Geometric similarity scaling (1:120) was applied to a prototype reinforced concrete chimney; numerical models were created and analyzed for natural frequencies and seismic performance.
Main Results:
- Significant variations in stiffness, density, and elasticity limits were observed among the seven polymers.
- 3D-printed polymer models demonstrated good agreement between field experiments, shaking-table tests, and numerical predictions for natural frequencies.
- Models exhibited satisfactory performance below the linear-elastic limit under simulated earthquake conditions.
Conclusions:
- Selected polymers are suitable for 3D-printing models for shaking-table tests, despite material property differences.
- Shaking-table frequency limits and potential resonance require careful consideration to ensure accurate dynamic assessments.
- Numerical analysis is recommended for pre-test feasibility studies and to prevent underestimation of natural frequencies.
