Effect of multi-walled carbon nanotubes on the properties of DLP 3D printing photosensitive resin

•A technique for manufacturing MWCNTs composite resin using DLP 3D printing was proposed.•The composite resin has an excellent molding accuracy.•The composites have good comprehensive mechanical properties and thermal properties. To improve the mechanical properties of photosensitive resin, a technique for manufacturing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) composite resin using DLP 3D printing was proposed. MWCNTs were used as reinforcing materials for photosensitive resins. The molding accuracy and comprehensive mechanical properties of the resin were significantly improved, and the content of MWCNTs was 0.06 wt%, which obtained the best properties. Tests with different thickness layers further confirmed the advantages of MWCNTs as reinforcing materials. The oil–water separation membrane was prepared by DLP 3D printing with the optimum content.