Low viscosity & high-performance resorcinol epoxy acrylate preparation & application in stereolithography 3D printing
ISSN: 0369-9420
Article publication date: 1 April 2022
Issue publication date: 28 July 2023
Abstract
Purpose
There is a rising demand for high-performance 3D printed objects that have established potential applications in the sector of dental, automotive, electronics, aerospace, etc. Thus, to meet the requirements of high-performance 3D printed objects, this study has synthesized, formulated and applied a resorcinol epoxy acrylate (REA) oligomer to a stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer.
Design/methodology/approach
Different formulations were developed by blending reactive diluents in the concentration of 10%, 15% and 20%, along with the fixed quantity of photo-initiators in the REA oligomer. The structure of synthesized REA oligomer was confirmed using 13 C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and 1H NMR spectroscopy, and the rheological properties for prepared REA formulations were also evaluated. The ultraviolet (UV)-cured specimens of all REA formulations were thoroughly examined based on physical, chemical, optical, mechanical and thermal properties. The best suitable formulation was selected for SLA 3D printing.
Findings
As perceived, UV cured REA specimens exhibit superior mechanical, chemical and thermal properties, portraying the ability to use as a high-performance material. The increase in the concentration of reactive diluents indicated a significant improvement in the properties of REA resin. The 20% diluted formulation achieved excellent compatibility with a SLA 3D printer; thus, 3D objects are cast with good dimensional stability and printability.
Originality/value
Resorcinol-based resins have always been a key additive used to enhance properties in the coating and tire industry. In a new attempt UV, curable REA has been applied to a SLA 3D printer to cast high-performance 3D printed objects.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This study was supported by TEQIP III, Govt of India, and the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai. The authors greatly appreciate the research facility provided by Research and Development Department, Bulk Chemicals & Intermediates Business, Atul Ltd. The authors extend their special thanks to Dr Dharmesh Desai for their immense support.
Declaration of interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have influenced the work reported in this paper.
Citation
Desai, P. and Jagtap, R.N. (2023), "Low viscosity & high-performance resorcinol epoxy acrylate preparation & application in stereolithography 3D printing", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 52 No. 5, pp. 559-568. https://doi.org/10.1108/PRT-01-2022-0004
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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