Characterization of PLA/Lignin Biocomposites for 3D Printing
Abstract
A greater proportion of polymer-based three-dimensional (3D) printing materials are
synthetic petroleum derivatives that are not biodegradable, contributing to environmental
pollution and have potential adverse effects on human health. Polylactic acid (PLA) is currently
the most widely used among the bio-based alternatives. This work explores alternative
environmentally friendly bio-based polymers sourced from sustainable crop and forest biomass
derivatives for 3D printing. Various blends of PLA/Organosolv lignin were extruded for fused
filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printing process. The processing parameters and results of
mechanical and thermal properties of fabricated test specimens of the biocomposite with up to
40wt% lignin concentration are presented. Results indicates that lignin, a low-cost waste product
of pulping for the paper industry and bioethanol fuel production could serve as a key component
of new biocomposite polymers for 3D printing applications.