Moisture sensitivity and compressive performance of 3D-printed cellulose-biopolyester foam lattices

Biobased, foam-like polyester composite materials were 3D-printed from a thermoset paste formulation. This formulation was composed of sebacic acid, glycerol, citric and cellulose nanocrystals in water ethanol with potassium chloride as salt porogen. Thin walls lattices geometry selected to facilitate post-printing processes such removal during curing the post-curing The compressive performance these moisture-sensitive lattice structures investigated after conditioning at different humidity levels by immersion. Finite element analysis used simulate porous using crushable foam material model. Addition plant triglyceride oils sunflower coconut trialled modify moisture sensitivity. 5 wt% oil prior 3D-printing found lower cured material’s stiffness under dry conditions while increasing plateau strength