Date of Award

12-2023

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Department

Mechanical Engineering

First Advisor

Sikder, Prabaha

Second Advisor

Owusu-Danquah, Josiah S.

Third Advisor

Usta, Mustafa

Abstract

This research investigates the deformation recovery of 3D-printed Polylactic Acid (PLA) shape memory polymers (SMPs). The study delves into the influence of Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) parameters, such as nozzle temperature, layer thickness, and printing speed, on the thermomechanical behavior of PLA SMP honeycomb structures. The research identifies optimal printing conditions using the Taguchi approach and explores the cyclic shape memory recovery behavior of the optimized PLA SMP under compression loads.

Additionally, the research includes a chapter on the extrusion and printing of uniform-diameter polylactic acid carbon fiber (CFR-PLA) composite filaments. The synthesis of CFR-PLA involves planetary ball milling for composite homogeneity. Extrusion parameters and 3D printing conditions are optimized, and mechanical testing, particularly tensile testing, reveals the composite's strength and flexibility. Fracture surface analysis highlights the behavior of carbon fibers during testing. Altogether, these results advance our understanding of PLA shape memory polymers and CFR-PLA composites, offering insights into material properties, printing parameters, and potential applications in various industries, including robotics, aerospace, and biomedicine.

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