Evaluation of Mechanical, Thermal, and Tribological Properties of 3D-Printed Nylon (PA6) Hybrid Composites Reinforced with MWCNTs and Carbon Fibers

Abstract

Three-dimensionally-printed carbonfiber-reinforced composites are increasingly replacing thermosetting polymers and metals due to their lightweight structure and enhanced mechanical performance. This investigation examines the mechanical, thermal and tribological characteristics of 3D-printed nylon (PA6) composites reinforced with 0.5 wt.% multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), 15 wt.% short carbon fibers (CF), and a hybrid combination of both, consisting of 0.5 wt.% MWCNTs and 15 wt.% CF. This study focuses on evaluating the individual and synergistic effects of these reinforcements on the performance of nylon-based composites. A series of characterizations, including mechanical, thermal, tribological, morphological and FTIR analyses, are conducted. The tensile and flexural strengths of the hybrid composite are improved by 35% and 42%, respectively, compared to pure nylon. The findings emphasize the substantial influence of hybrid reinforcement on enhancing mechanical, thermal, and tribological properties, providing useful information on the possible utilization of these composites in engineering applications requiring high-performance materials.