Bio-composites reinforced with corn industry waste for 3D printing applications
Andreia Romeiro1 andreiar@eq.uc.pt; Carlos T. B. Paula1,2 cpaula@ipn.pt; Jorge F.J. Coelho1 jcoelho@eq.uc.pt; Arménio C. Serra1 aserra@eq.uc.pt
1 University of Coimbra, CEMMPRE, ARISE, Department of Chemical Engineering, Rua Sílvio Lima-Polo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
2 IPN, Instituto Pedro Nunes, Associação para a Inovação e Desenvolvimento em Ciência e Tecnologia, Rua Pedro Nunes, 3030-199 Coimbra, Portugal
Centre for Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Processes (CEMMPRE), ARISE, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Pólo II, Rua Sílvio Lima, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
Abstract
Biobased polymers have been extensively studied over the last decade due as the need to reduce the carbon footprint becomes ever greater [1-2]. While biopolymers are often more expensive than conventional polymers, their properties can be significantly improved by the addition of biobased fillers—particularly agricultural waste—which helps to maintain biodegradability and reduce overall material costs [3].
Waste for the corn industry -such as corncobs, husks, and stalks—can be used to enhance the mechanical and functional properties of biodegradable polymers, improving strength, thermal stability, and flexibility [4]. These key properties are essential for a range of 3D printing applications, from prototyping to functional end-use components.
In this work the properties of biocomposites, their processing methods, and the challenges and opportunities associated with their application in 3D printing technologies are investigated. The study was conducted using corn cobs, a residue from the corn starch industry which is mainly composed of cellulose and hemicellulose. Grinding of the corn cob and introducing it into in formulations with biopolymers such as PLA (polylactic acid) and PBAT (polybutylene terephthalate) in a 3D printing technology improves the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the polymers. Various filaments were produced and then 3D printed. The biocomposites were then analyzed for their thermal, mechanical, and morphological properties.
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