Optimization of Extrusion Process Parameters of Recycled High-Density Polyethylene-Thermoplastic Starch Composite for Fused Filament Fabrication

High-density poly-ethylene (HDPE) is a nonbiodegradable recyclable plastic which widely utilized in single use packaging applications. Consequently, it constitutes significant amount of waste found landfills. From literature, has been shown that parts produced using composites HDPE with carbohydrate-based polymers, such as thermoplastic starch (TPS), experience mechanical degradation through hydrolytic process. The possible utilization recycled-HDPE (rHDPE) and TPS composite nonconventional manufacturing processes Fused filament fabrication (FFF) however not explored. This study explores the potential application rHDPE FFF optimizes extrusion process parameters used rHDPE-TPS production Taguchi method was to analyze studied were spooling speed, speed temperatures. response variable diameter. In this research, maximum content achieved during 40 wt%. challenging printers due frequent nozzle clogging. Printing therefore done filaments contained 0 - 30 wt% TPS. experimental results showed most parameter followed by speed. Extrusion temperature had least influence on It observed increase resulted reduced warping increased rate degradation. Mechanical properties printed investigated increasing reduction tensile strength, compression strength stiffness. findings research provide valuable insights recycling industries researchers regarding recycled substitute materials FFF.