Thermo-rheological effects on successful 3D printing of biodegradable polyesters

Biodegradable polybutylene succinate (PBS) and poly (butylene succinate-ran-adipate) (PBSA) were characterized to find the thermo-rheological bases for 3D printing by Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF). In dynamic viscoelastic measurements, the samples fulfilled time-temperature superposition and Cox Merz rule. The viscosity results were linked to the excellent filaments obtained and the observed good flow in the printer nozzle. Using specific tearing experiments, outstanding welding of the printed layers was obtained. Results were discussed considering the values of the entanglements density obtained by small amplitude oscillatory shear (SAOS) measurements. The main difference between both polymers was observed in the final production of 3D printed parts because the high crystallinity of PBS produced significant warpage, which prevented its use for practical purposes. On the contrary, the less crystalline PBSA random copolymer showed excellent performance during FFF. Thus, dimensionally stable and ductile printed objects were obtained, opening new processing routes for semi-crystalline biodegradable polyesters.