Photo-curing 3D printing of micro-scale bamboo fibers reinforced palm oil-based thermosets composites

Fiber-reinforced thermosets composites are widely used in engineering fields, but it is difficult to be customized for objects with complex shapes. Photo-curing 3D printing technique can achieve high precision and customization for polymer composites preparation. Herein, we demonstrate a simple and convenient strategy to manufacture biocomposites from micro-scale bamboo fibers (MBFs) and a vinyl palm oil-based resins via photocuring 3D printing. To improve the dispersion and stability of MBFs in the inks and the interfacial adhesion between fibers and matrix, the MBFs were modified with methacrylic anhydride to endow the fibers with C=C bonds. The modified MBFs could participate in the crosslinking of the bio-based matrix, thus greatly enhancing the mechanical strength and modulus as well as glass transition temperatures of the composites. More importantly, the matrix of the printed bio-based composites can be degraded in a mild condition, which is conducive to the recycle and utilization of fibers.

Automated summary

In this study, a simple and convenient strategy was demonstrated to manufacture biocomposites from micro-scale bamboo fibers and a vinyl palm oil-based resin using photo-curing 3D printing technique. The modified bamboo fibers improved the dispersion and stability in the inks, as well as the interfacial adhesion between fibers and matrix, leading to enhanced mechanical properties and glass transition temperatures of the composites. Importantly, the printed bio-based composites matrix can be degraded in a mild condition, facilitating fiber recycling and utilization.