Modification of poly(lactic acid) filament with expandable graphite for additive manufacturing using fused filament fabrication (FFF): effect on thermal and mechanical properties

Abstract Fused Filament Fabrication, better known as Deposition Modeling®, is currently the most widespread 3D Printing Technology. There has been a significant demand for developing flame-retardant filaments. Thereby enabling them, example, in electronics and automotive applications. In this study, commercial PLA filament was modified by addition of 1, 3 5% (%wt.) expandable graphite. The composites were reprocessed, via extrusion, into filaments Fabrication. Thermal properties evaluated thermogravimetric analysis differential scanning calorimetry. Mechanical thermo-pressed specimens indicated that no strong adhesion promoted between filler matrix. This challenge with graphite reported many authors. All achieved V-2 rating UL-94 flammability test. spite this, results reduced. composite printable prototypes successfully printed.