Preparation and 3D printing parameters of thermo/electrically shape memory PLA/SEBS-g-MA/CB composites

In this work, novel thermo-responsive shape memory blends PLA/SEBS-g-MA and electro-responsive PLA/SEBS-g-MA/carbon black (CB) composites were prepared by melt blending, and were extruded into filaments for 3D printing. SEM images illustrate that the blends possess co-continuous structure at SEBS-g-MA ratio of 30 wt% and showcase remarkable shape memory properties (Rf 100 %, Rr 85.3 %), which were attributed to effective stress transfer. In the second part, PLA/SEBS-g-MA/CB composites were produced with different amounts of CB nanoparticles. The volume resistivity of composites with CB additions of 13 phr and above is maintained at about 102 Ω cm, and the printed samples showed superior electro-responsive performance, with response completed in about 40 s at 60 V DC. In addition, the effect of printing parameters on the mechanical properties was investigated and it was found that the choice of layer thickness was strongly related to tensile and flexural strength. [Display omitted] •The novel thermo/electrically shape memory PLA/SEBS-g-MA/CB composites were prepared, and were applied to 3D printing.•Composites exhibit excellent mechanical and shape memory properties.•The effect of process parameters on the mechanical properties of printed products was investigated.