Investigation of the Interfacial Adhesion Strength of Parts Additively Manufactured on Fabrics

Abstract

This research first presents a method of peel testing developed by the researchers to characterize the strength of the interface between fabric and additively manufactured material. Experimentation is next presented that characterizes the interfacial strength relative to a set of parameters which include fabric fiber morphology, thickness of sizing applied to fabric, 3D printer bed temperature, and angle of additive manufacturing relative to the fabric warp direction. The interface strength within the parameter space presented was then searched and found to have a maximum of 5.18 N/mm using a novel set of parameters. This interface strength indicates the method of additive manufacturing direction on fabric may be suitable for use in a broader range of applications than previously proven feasible. Relatively rough, thick, and loose weave fabrics were found to promote interface strength compared to smoother, thinner, and finer woven fabrics. Relatively higher bed temperatures also promoted higher interface strength. Sizings on the fabric were found to promote interface strength with relatively smooth, thin, or fine fabrics which do not themselves promote high mechanical interlocking. Using these research findings, interface strength between fabric and additively manufactured material can be modified to suit the application.