Properties and structure of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) filaments for fused deposition modelling

Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is a process of additive manufacturing allowing creating highly precise complex three-dimensional objects for large range applications. The principle FDM an extrusion the molten filament and gradual layers their solidification. Potential applications in pharmaceutical medical fields require development biodegradable biocompatible thermoplastics processing filaments. In this work, potential production poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) (P(3HB-co-4HB)) filaments was investigated respect to its thermal stability. Copolymer P(3HB-co-4HB) biosynthesised by Cupriavidus malaysiensis. Rheological mechanical properties copolymer were modified addition plasticizers or blending with poly(lactic acid). Thermal stability mixtures studied employing thermogravimetric analysis rheological analyses monitoring time-dependent changes viscosity melt samples. plasticization slightly hindered degradation but best stabilization effect found case blended Overall, rheological, demonstrated that plasticized candidate polymer processes.