Electrical and Mechanical Properties of 3D-Printed Graphene-Reinforced Epoxy

Recent developments in additive manufacturing have demonstrated the potential for thermoset polymer feedstock materials to achieve high strength, stiffness, and functionality through incorporation of structural and functional filler materials. In this work, graphene was investigated as a potential filler material to provide rheological properties necessary for direct-write three-dimensional (3D) printing and electrostatic discharge properties to the printed component. The rheological properties of epoxy/graphene mixtures were characterized, and printable epoxy/graphene inks formulated. Sheet resistance values for printed epoxy/graphene composites ranged from 0.67 x 10(2) Omega/sq to 8.2 x 10(3) Omega/sq. The flexural strength of printed epoxy/graphene composites was comparable to that of cast neat epoxy (similar to 80 MPa), suggesting great potential for these new materials in multifunctional 3D-printed devices.