Temperature-Dependent Thermal Properties of Nearly Amorphous Polyamide 6

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Additive Manufacturing
• Polymer Engineering

Background:

• Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is a vital 3D printing technology for prototyping and research.
• Thermal history significantly impacts FFF part properties like warping, accuracy, adhesion, and mechanical strength.
• Accurate material thermal properties are essential for understanding and controlling thermal history effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the temperature-dependent thermal properties of unfilled polyamide 6 for FFF.
• To provide data critical for modeling and optimizing the FFF process for this material.
• To highlight measurement challenges and their relevance to actual 3D printing conditions.

Main Methods:

• Experimental measurement of isobaric heat capacity.
• Experimental measurement of thermal conductivity.
• Experimental measurement of density as a function of temperature.

Main Results:

• Temperature-dependent data for isobaric heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and density of polyamide 6 were obtained.
• The study details the challenges in accurately measuring these properties for FFF applications.
• The findings provide a foundation for predicting and mitigating thermal-related defects in 3D printed parts.

Conclusions:

• The provided thermal property data are essential for accurate thermal modeling in FFF.
• Addressing measurement challenges is crucial for reliable material characterization in additive manufacturing.
• This research contributes to improving the quality and predictability of FFF printed polyamide 6 parts.