Embedding Polysaccharide Thin Films in Digital Light Processing (DLP) for Biobased Composites

Abstract

This research explores the production of polysaccharide-reinforced thin-film composites using digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing, aiming to advance options in reinforcing photocurable resin systems. Polysaccharide thin films─including cellulose nanofibers (CNF), TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (ToCNF), chitin nanofibers (ChNF), and electrospun cellulose acetate (CA)─were synthesized and incorporated into resin matrices to develop innovative composites. The films and composites were fabricated and characterized for surface properties, mechanical strength, and thermal stability using contact angle measurements, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, profilometry, and thermogravimetric analysis. CNF composites exhibited superior tensile strength and modulus, while ChNF and CA composites demonstrated enhanced impact resistance and flexural properties due to their fibrous architecture. ToCNF composites showcased well-balanced mechanical performance attributed to the carboxyl groups introduced during oxidation. Thermal analysis revealed that CA composites had the highest onset degradation temperature and residual mass, indicating improved thermal stability. These findings highlight the potential of polysaccharide films as robust reinforcements for DLP resins, offering tailored structural properties based on thin film performance.