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A general simulation-based study on printability of inks in direct ink writing
Md Asaduzzaman Sourov1, Seyda Islam Emu1, Md Shajedul Hoque Thakur2
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh.
Scientific Reports
|March 22, 2025
Summary
This study models direct ink writing (DIW) 3D printing ink printability using finite element method (FEM). Cellulose nanocrystal inks show the best printability due to shear thinning and shape retention.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Computational Mechanics
Background:
- Direct ink writing (DIW) is a versatile 3D printing technique.
- Developing printable inks with optimal rheological properties remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To numerically model and evaluate the printability of various inks for DIW.
- To identify key rheological characteristics differentiating high and low printability inks.
- To propose a grading parameter for ink printability.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the finite element method (FEM) for numerical simulation.
- Modeled five distinct ink types: cement, epoxy, cellulose nanocrystals, alginate hydrogel, and metallic powder hydrogel.
- Evaluated shear thinning behavior, shape retention, and ink blockage.
Main Results:
- Inks with better printability exhibit enhanced shear thinning, yield shear strength, and shape retention.
- A printability grading parameter was proposed based on rheological properties.
- 20 wt% cellulose nanocrystals demonstrated superior printability among the tested inks.
Conclusions:
- FEM is an effective tool for predicting DIW ink printability.
- Rheological properties like shear thinning and shape retention are critical for successful DIW.
- Optimized cellulose nanocrystal formulations offer promising printability for DIW applications.
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