Hybrid fabrication and characterization of biocompatible Bamboo/PLA composites

In this work, a novel hybrid scheme that integrates additive manufacturing (AM) with conventional compression moulding is developed to fabricate bamboo-reinforced polylactic acid-based (PLA-based) composite sheets. First, fused deposition moulding (FDM) is employed to deposit PLA into the bamboo woven mats. Second, multiple composite sheets are combined to increase the thickness via compression moulding. Further, the effect of FDM process nozzle temperature on the properties and performance of bamboo-PLA composite material is investigated along with a detailed microstructural characterization. It is found that an increase in nozzle temperature reduces pores in the composite material and improves the tensile, flexural and impact properties. Microstructural analysis of failure surfaces reveals that the damage occurred via PLA-bamboo interface decohesion and bamboo fibre breakage. Based on the microstructural analysis, a failure mechanism for the bamboo-PLA composite material is proposed, along with suggestions for further improvement in the ductility.