Biobased smart materials for processing via fused layer modeling

Abstract

Smart Structures are able to change their shape under the influence of external stimuli. The shape change takes place without the influence of external forces and is self-induced. In view of the increasing demand for energy efficiency and ecological sustainability, Smart Materials allow for a novel approach to incorporate functionalities into a component without additional energy demand and material costs. Within this project, a structure based on a biobased plastic has been developed that deforms under the influence of moisture in a precalculated manner. The Smart Structure is produced by fused layer modeling. The deformation is achieved by the targeted anisotropic assembly of the structure in the additive manufacturing process by using two filaments with a different sensitivity to moisture, which thus form a hybrid structure in the component.