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Bio-Composite Filaments Based on Poly(Lactic Acid) and Cocoa Bean Shell Waste for Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF):
Daniela Fico1,2, Daniela Rizzo3, Valentina De Carolis1
1Department of Engineering for Innovation, University of Salento, Edificio P, Campus Ecotekne, s.p. 6 Lecce-Monteroni, 73100 Lecce, Italy.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|March 28, 2024
Summary
This study developed eco-friendly 3D printing filaments using cocoa bean shell waste (CBSW) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA). The resulting biocomposites offer improved mechanical properties and support circular economy principles.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Engineering
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Growing waste from chocolate processing presents disposal challenges.
- Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a biodegradable polymer with potential for composite development.
- Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) offers additive manufacturing capabilities for novel materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To formulate novel biocomposite filaments using cocoa bean shell waste (CBSW) and PLA.
- To assess the structural, morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties of the developed biofilaments.
- To evaluate the potential of these biocomposites for FFF applications and circular economy initiatives.
Main Methods:
- Formulation of PLA-CBSW biocomposites at 5 wt.% and 10 wt.% concentrations.
- Comprehensive characterization including structural, morphological, thermal, and mechanical analyses.
- Testing of printability and mechanical performance of 3D printed objects.
Main Results:
- No significant morphological or thermal changes observed at 5 wt.% and 10 wt.% CBSW.
- Satisfactory printability achieved for the biocomposite filaments.
- Improved stiffness and load resistance in 3D printed objects with higher CBSW content.
Conclusions:
- PLA-CBSW biocomposites are viable for FFF applications.
- The use of CBSW in PLA enhances mechanical properties while promoting waste valorization.
- These materials support resource conservation and circular economy principles in additive manufacturing.
