K. Song, T. Sobczak, D. Patil
UGA,
United States
Keywords: composites, 3D printing, glass, polymer
Summary:
The advent of 3D printing technology has revolutionized the fabrication of polymer-glass composites, enabling the creation of materials with unique properties such as transparency, enhanced mechanical strength, and intricate hollow structures. This innovative approach combines the flexibility and ease of processing inherent in polymers with the hardness and durability of glass, resulting in composites that are not only structurally robust but also aesthetically appealing due to their clear, glass-like appearance. The ability to 3D print these composites allows for precise control over their internal architecture, facilitating the design of complex, lightweight, and hollow structures that were previously challenging or impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods. This has significant implications for a wide range of applications, including aerospace, automotive, biomedical devices, and consumer products, where the demand for materials that are both strong and lightweight is constantly growing. The integration of transparency and reinforced mechanical properties in these composites further broadens their potential uses, particularly in areas requiring visual inspection or aesthetic appeal.