Radiographic testing of 3D-printed thermoplastics using Am-241 as a gamma-ray source

Abstract The industrial production of 3D printing is known as additive manufacturing (AM), in which a computer controls the process producing objects. Although x-ray computed radiography (XCT) extensively used quality control and testing products, gamma-ray capabilities for these applications still need to be investigated. This study aimed evaluate performance using americium-241 (Am-241) gamma source. Here, we inspected fused deposition three-dimensional (3D) modeling products produced from polylactic acid (PLA) thermoplastic samples. Radiographic 3D-printed samples was performed Monte Carlo simulations validated by experimental studies. We Am-241 (gamma-ray source) conduct experiments investigations; two were used: one 59.6 keV energy other all energies, including 16.96 keV, 26.3446 keV% 2.31 up 662.40 keV. Also, test standard. results showed that defect detectability PLA source comparable results. concluded could perform thermoplastics.