Abstract
Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the mechanical properties of photopolymer/CB (carbon black) nanocomposite when applied in a visible-light rapid prototyping (RP) machine. Design/methodology/approach - The mechanical properties of the samples such as hardness and tensile strength along with thermal stability were analyzed. The curing time behavior of the photopolymer/CB nanocomposites was tested by using a rigid-body pendulum rheometer. The shrinkage property and dimensional stability were also analyzed using the technique according to ASTM D2566 and ASTM D1204, respectively. Findings - The results showed that the prototype fabricated from pristine photopolymer tended to exhibit poor mechanical properties and low thermal stability. However, after adding the photopolymer with various concentrations of nano-CB and dispersant in appropriate composition, the photopolymer/CB nanocomposite prototype not only reduced its curing time but also enhanced its mechanical properties, thermal stability and dimensional stability. Practical implications - The presented results can be used in a visible-light RP machine. Originality/value - The mechanical and thermal properties of photopolymer are improved with nano-CB additives for a RP system.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 262-269 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Rapid Prototyping Journal |
Volume | 21 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 20 Apr 2015 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Additive
- Carbon black
- Composites
- Mechanical properties
- Photopolymer