Thermal and mechanical properties of Fdmed biocomposites in polylactic acid and food flour waste

Abstract

In the last few years, fused deposition modelling (FDM) has been explored as an innovative technology for processing thermoplastic green composite materials. However, not all FDM filaments are ecologically beneficial due to their release of toxic compounds during printing. Moreover, they have a dangerous environmental impact, as they are obtained from petroleum. The researches on biofilament manufacturing for FDM are of great interest, thus attracting a lot of attention. The low cost of such filaments could help minimize the use of petroleum-based plastics. In this frame, this work deals with a 3d printer PLA filament neat and additive by food flour waste percentage was created. The innovative filament was analyzed by calorimetric and thermogravimetric analysis, and its printability was evaluated by manufacturing specimens of suitable dimensions for flexural tests. The mechanical tests were carried out to assess the use of the innovative 3d printed biocomposite in place of traditional plastics in packaging or to make films for food use.