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- Mechanical properties of PLA specimens obtained by additive manufacturing process reinforced with flax fibersPublication . Paulo, Ana; Santos, Jorge; Rocha, João; Lima, Rui A.; Ribeiro, J.E.Abstract Although polylactic acid (PLA) is one of the most used materials in additive manufacturing, its mechanical properties are quite limiting for its practical application, therefore, to improve these properties it is frequent to add fibers and, in this way, create a more resistant composite material. In this paper, the authors developed PLA composites reinforced with flax fibers to evaluate the improvement of tensile and flexural strength. The experimental design of experiments was based on the L18 Taguchi array where the control factors were the extruder temperature (three levels), number of strands (three levels), infill percentage of the specimens (three levels), and whether the flax fiber had surface chemical treatment. The tensile and flexural specimens were made on a 3D printing machine and was a mold was developed to fix and align the fiber strands during the printing process. The tensile and flexural experimental tests were performed in agreement with ASTM D638.14 and ISO 14125 standards, respectively. Analyzing the results, it was verified that the surface chemical treatment (NaOH) of the fiber did not show any influence in the mechanical properties of the composites; in contrast, the infill density demonstrated a huge influence for the improvement of mechanical strength. The maximum values of tensile and bending stress were 50 MPa and 73 MPa, respectively. The natural fiber reinforcement can improve the mechanical properties of the PLA composites.
- 2nd. International Workshop on Additive Manufacturing and Sustainability (IWAM): book of proceedingsPublication . Rocha, João; Ribeiro, J.E.; Santos, Jorge; Lima, Rui A.In recent years, the manufacturing processes have undergone a profound transformation, driven by the rapid evolution of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. What began as a tool primarily for prototyping through stereolithography has now expanded into a versatile and innovative field capable of producing functional, end-use components across a wide range of industries. From fused deposition modeling (FDM) to selective laser melting (SLM) and beyond, AM has unlocked new possibilities in design, material utilization, and production efficiency. Today, additive manufacturing encompasses an extensive array of materials, including metals, polymers, paper, and even biological tissues, enabling applications that span from the mechanical industry to the biomedical sector. One of the most compelling aspects of additive manufacturing is its potential to drive sustainability in modern production processes. Unlike traditional subtractive methods, which often generate significant material waste, AM builds components layer by layer, minimizing excess material and promoting resource efficiency. Furthermore, the ability to use eco-friendly and recyclable materials aligns with global efforts to reduce environmental impact. AM also supports the production of complex, customized parts on demand, reducing the need for large inventories and long-distance transportation, thereby lowering carbon emissions. By optimizing resource use and enabling more efficient production cycles, additive manufacturing is emerging as a cornerstone of sustainable manufacturing practices. This proceeding book arrests the latest advancements, challenges, and opportunities in the field of additive manufacturing, with a particular focus on its transformative potential and contributions to sustainability. The works presented here reflect the interdisciplinary nature of AM, showcasing innovative techniques, materials, and applications that are shaping the future of manufacturing. From cutting-edge research to real-world case studies, this collection aims to inspire further exploration and collaboration, driving the adoption of additive manufacturing as a key enabler of sustainable industrial progress. We invite readers to probe into these pages and discover how AM is not only redefining manufacturing but also paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future.