Selective laser sintering characteristics of nylon 6/clay-reinforced nanocomposite

Sintering characteristics and thermal properties of neat polyamide 6 and clay nanoparticle/polyamide 6 composite were compared for applications in the selective laser sintering (SLS) process. Differences in thermal and rheological behavior between the nanocomposite and the standard polymer were studied by differential scanning calorimeter, melt flow index, and compact sintering experiments. Nanoparticles increase the material's viscosity and its mechanical properties. Sintered nanocomposite powders showed lower final density than the standard polymer due to increased resistance to low shear rate deformation. Because of this flow resistance, SLS parameters such as holding temperature and laser power must be adjusted and it may be impractical to improve rapidly manufactured part strength using such materials. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.