Alashqar
Alashqar
Alashqar
A Thesis by
Zaid Alashqar
Bachelor of Science, Wichita State University, 2019
May 2020
© Copyright 2020 by Zaid Alashqar
All Rights Reserved
PHOTOCURABLE POLYMERS FOR 3D PRINTING
The following faculty members have examined the final copy of this thesis for form and content
and recommend that it be accepted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of Master
of Science, with a major in Biomedical Engineering.
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DEDICATION
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge everyone who has helped me on my journey
of achieving my Master of Science degree. First, I am grateful to my family and my fiancé for their
continuous support and encouragement throughout my education, especially during the year
working towards the M.S. degree. I especially like to thank my mother who always believed in me
and provided me with unconditional love and support. I love you all very much.
Additionally, I would like to acknowledge and thank my advisor Dr. Anil Mahapatro from the
Department of Biomedical Engineering. He was always ready to share his expertise and knowledge
to steer me in the right direction and help me achieve the best possible solutions. I would also like
to give a special thanks to my committee members Dr. David Long and Dr. Gamal Weheba for
I would also like to extend my gratitude to the members of the Biomaterials Lab for their advice
and support during the time we shared in the lab and at meetings.
This work was made possible by an institutional Development Award (IDeA) from the National
Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under the grant number
P20GM103418.
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ABSTRACT
Additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and 3D printing are three interchangeable terms that
describe creating layers upon layers to form an object from a computer aided design (CAD).
Additive manufacturing (AM) has a direct and positive effect on manufacturing due to its ability
to shorten supply chains and continually improve manufacturing processes [1]. In recent years, the
shift towards additive manufacturing has increased due to its cost effectiveness and ability to
produce tailored products at a higher rate [2]. In addition, the ability for additive manufacturing to
carry on without the need for cutting tools and coolants gives an advantage for AM over traditional
manufacturing methods. However, there are many limitations keeping AM from being used as a
primary method in produce final parts and assemblies in various industries. Limitations such as
the lack of repeatability in the printed objects, the need for post processing and the high cost and
limitation of raw materials. Therefore, the limitations in materials need to be addressed and a new,
this thesis is to develop a novel, biomedically relevant resins suitable for photolithography 3D
printing. To do that, stereolithography and digital light processing were studied and compared.
The effect of printing parameters and post processing times on the properties of the final objects
was investigated for both techniques to help further understand the concept of photolithography.
After that, four resin formulations with various molar ratios were used to develop photocurable
raw material for 3D printing. The results showed that the structural and thermal properties of the
final printed object can be enhanced as a result of decreasing the layer height and increasing the
time of post processing. Furthermore, photocurable resins were developed and cured in a UV
curing chamber. The results showed a high degree of curing and percent yield for the developed
resins.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter Page
1. Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................... 1
3. Investigating the Effect of 3D Printing Parameters on the Structural and Thermal Properties of Printed Objects in
Stereolithography Versus Digital Light Processing. .......................................................................................... 32
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
Chapter Page
3.4.1 FTIR ..................................................................................................................................... 39
3.4.2 Degree of Curing (DC) .......................................................................................................... 40
3.4.3 Swelling................................................................................................................................ 45
3.4.4 Degradation .......................................................................................................................... 45
3.4.5 DSC ...................................................................................................................................... 47
3.4.6 TGA ..................................................................................................................................... 53
3.5 Conclusion ...................................................................................................................................... 55
5.1 Conclusion....................................................................................................................................... 89
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
Chapter Page
5.2 Future Work .................................................................................................................................... 90
REFERENCES.................................................................................................................................................... 91
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Page
2.2.1. Basic principle of additive manufacturing. ..................................................................................... 6
2.4.1. Comparing actual vs ideal dimensions for height (H), length (L1), and width (L2) for samples
printed using FDM 300 printer (27). ...................................................................................................... 13
2.4.2. Comparing actual vs ideal dimensions for height (H), length (L1), and width (L2) for samples
printed using Model 1 printer (27). ........................................................................................................ 13
2.4.5. Effect of samples’ layout on the ultimate tensile strength [41]. ..................................................... 20
2.4.7. Drug release percentage of different tablets varying call diameters [43]. ....................................... 23
2.4.9. Average deviation (mm) for different build angles [52] ................................................................ 27
2.5.2. Tensile Strength and Young’s modulus of cured samples [54]. ..................................................... 30
3.4.2. Impact of layer height and printing technique on the degree of curing........................................... 42
3.4.3. Effect of post processing time and curing method on the degree of curing. ................................... 44
3.4.4. Effect of layer height on the thermal stability for SLA. ................................................................. 48
3.4.5. Effect of post processing on the thermal stability for SLA. ........................................................... 49
3.4.6. Effect of layer height on the thermal stability for DLP. ................................................................. 50
3.4.7. Effect of post processing on the thermal stability for SLA. ........................................................... 51
3.4.8. DSC results for SLA vs DLP at 0.100 mm layer height. ............................................................... 52
3.4.9. DSC results for SLA vs DLP post processed for 20+ minutes. ...................................................... 53
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LIST OF FIGURES (continued)
Figure Page
3.4.10. TGA curves for SLA 0.100 mm layer height versus 0.025 mm layer height and 30-minute post
cured sample. ........................................................................................................................................ 54
3.4.11. TGA curves for SLA vs DLP at 0.100 mm and 30 minute of post processing.............................. 55
4.3.1: The chemical structure of (1): PEGDA, (2): GDGDA, & (3): DI-TAMPTA. ................................ 62
4.4.1. FTIR spectra of (A) uncured PD-2 sample and (B) cured PD-2 sample after 30 minutes of curing. 68
4.4.2. Characterization of Poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate based resin (PEGDA: DI-TAMPTA). ......... 71
4.4.5. Characterization of swelling behavior for GD1- GD-3 (GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA). ........................ 75
4.4.6. Characterization of PEGDA and GDGDA copolymer-based resin (PEGDA: GDGDA). ............... 78
4.4.8. Characterization of PG-1, PGD-1 and PGD-3 resin formulations (PEGDA: GDGDA: DI-
(TAMPTA). .......................................................................................................................................... 81
4.4.9. Characterization of swelling behavior for PGD1-PGD-4 (PEGDA: GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA). ...... 83
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Chapter One
Introduction
1.1 Motivation
In recent years, the shift towards additive manufacturing has increased due to several factors
including its ability to produce tailorable products at a higher rate, its cost effectiveness, and
finally, its ability to shorten supply chains and improve manufacturing processes. Many additive
manufacturing techniques have been developed and studied in the past. One of these techniques is
is used to cure the raw resin material in order to create the final object [3, 4]. Stereolithography
(SLA) and digital light processing (DLP) are examples of photolithography 3D printing techniques
where an ultraviolet light is used to cure a liquid resin. While stereolithography is considered one
of the oldest and most used 3D printing technique, digital light processing is a new
stereolithography technique that uses a photomask to print each layer from a binary image using a
digital micromirror device. Although, there exits several reports on SLA based technologies [3,
5-10], there are limited reports on DLP based 3D printing technologies [11-14], and even lesser
reports on comparative analysis of SLA and DLP technologies [15]. Therefore, additional studies
Photopolymerization based 3D printing has a variety of applications in the different industries such
as automotive, aerospace, electronics and bio-robotics [16-18]. One of the main industries that can
benefit from this technology is the biomedical industry through applications in drug delivery,
tissue engineering, and research and development of medical devices. However, many limitations
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need to be addressed before relaying completely on this type of manufacturing to create final parts
and assemblies in various industries to gain the highest benefit of photolithography additive
manufacturing. The biggest limitation in photolithography is the limited availability and the high
cost of the photocurable resins, in addition, most photocurable resins in the market are fossil-fuel
based. Therefore, developing low cost, environmentally friendly material for stereolithography
and digital light processing is still an important need to help advance additive manufacturing,
Thus, the objective of this thesis is to develop a novel biodegradable based photocurable resin
suitable for photolithography-based curing systems such as stereolithography and digital light
processing 3D printers. The purpose of the development of the new material is to increase the
diversity and provide wider range of environmentally friendly materials that can be used in
additive manufacturing.
The primary research objectives of this thesis are to investigate the effectiveness of digital light
additive manufacturing. These objectives can be achieved through the following specific aims:
1. Specific Aim 1: Investigate the effectiveness of DLP Printer as compared to the traditional
SLA UV printer.
2. Specific Aim 2: Determine the effect of printing parameters and post processing on
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3. Specific Aim 3: Development of a novel biodegradable-based resin material suitable for
photopolymerization.
1. Chapter one introduces the motivation along with the primary objectives and specific aims.
also discusses several additive manufacturing techniques, mechanisms, and studies done
techniques.
3. Chapter three is an investigation of the effect of process parameters such as layer height
and post processing technique on the thermal and structural properties of the printed
specimens using the stereolithography and digital light processing 3D printing techniques.
stereolithography technique versus the relatively new digital light processing technique.
The results showed that the degree of curing and thermal stability will improve as a result
of decreasing the layer height and post curing for a longer time for stereolithography and
biomedically relevant resins. The resin formulations use poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate
to create a biodegradable and biocompatible backbone for the resins. A crosslinking agent
(constant) to initiate and propagate polymerization reactions to create solidify the resins.
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The results showed that the addition or increase of the crosslinking agent increased the
degree of curing and decreased the swelling percentage. The results showed that the
optimal molar ratio was a 1:1:1 ratio for PEGDA:GDGDA:DI-TAMPTA which yielded
5. Chapter five provides an overall summary and conclusion of this work addressed in this
thesis and discusses future work with this project and how this work can be expanded in
the future.
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Chapter 2
Literature Review
2.1 Abstract
Additive manufacturing is experiencing a tremendous growth in the recent years due to its
advantages such as the ability to create high quality parts while reducing cost and building time.
There are many 3D printing techniques in the market today and some have more advanced
applications than others, however, there are still many unresolved issues in additive manufacturing
that require the attention of researchers such as lack of repeatability is some cases as well as the
limitation of materials and resources; those issues are the reason behind its limited use in the
industry today. The goal behind most of studies that investigate additive manufacturing techniques
is to ensure its reliability and ability to be used in real life applications rather than just prototyping.
Additive manufacturing is a challenging yet high rewarding area that could have a great effect in
lean manufacturing in different industries such as aerospace, automotive, and even biomedical
industries.
2.2. Introduction
Additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and 3D printing are three interchangeable terms
that describe creating layers upon layers to form an object from a computer aided design (CAD).
Each of those layers is a cross sectional slice of data that will eventually join together to create the
desired three dimensional object [19]. The process generally starts by creating a 3D model using
a modeling software i.e. CATIA. After that, the CAD model is converted to an STL. file which
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can then be read and sliced into layers using certain slicing software that is compatible with the
3D printer. The slicing software allows the printer to be able to read the file and specifies the
parameters of the desired print. Slicing software then can export the sliced file to the printer and
order it to start building the object layer upon layer. The basic principle of the additive
While the term additive manufacturing describes the process of how it is done, the term rapid
prototyping describes one of the early applications of the technology and what made manufacturers
eager about it. Rapid prototyping points to the ability to create prototypes at the early process of
developing or manufacturing in a fast and more affordable way. The ability to create a prototype
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as quickly and affordable as possible gives manufacturers the ability to improve or change their
design at early stages of development which could mean saving money in the advanced stages of
development [20].
The first commercial use for additive manufacturing was done in 1987 by a 3D printing company
material layer by layer using an ultraviolet light. This was the first ever commercially available
additive manufacturing machine in the world [22]. Following that in the years 1991 and 1992,
other non-stereolithographic techniques were introduced to the market such as fused deposition
modeling and selective laser sintering. These techniques and others will be discussed in later
manufacturing allowed for the emerging of additive manufacturing into the market. Figure 2.2.2
The difference between additive manufacturing (AM) and other traditional techniques such as
computer numerical controlled (CNC) machining is that even though they both use computers,
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AM techniques are additive while CNC machining is subtractive manufacturing meaning that it
starts with a block of material that is at least the size of the desired object then it is cut in certain
manufacturing techniques is that AM does not require cutting tools, coolants, and other resources
that could be necessary to the traditional manufacturing process [24]. In addition, AM technologies
allow for more complexity of the parts since the material is being added upon itself to make the
part rather than shaped and cut from an original block of material. Other advantages of AM include
speed, efficiency, reducing costs, eliminating waste, freedom to customize, shortening time to
The advantages of additive manufacturing allowed for a better relationship between the
manufacturers and the customers because AM allows for customization of product, In addition,
AM helped create simpler supply chains were there are more innovation in production of products
[25]. The speed of AM and the ability to set up the manufacturing process quickly allows for better
lean manufacturing because the making to order in additive manufacturing means that there is no
inventory risks or unsold finished products. As well as the direct production from a CAD model
to an object helps eliminating any tooling required meaning that the cost of production will be less
[2]. Another area where additive manufacturing helps production is waste reduction; since the
process is additive (layer upon layer) there is no waste of material during the making of products
which means the manufacturing cost will be less [26]. Although there are a lot of advantages for
AM, however, it has been used in excessively in prototyping and not in actual production in the
different industries because there are still challenges today in additive manufacturing and some
disadvantages.
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One of the main disadvantages of additive manufacturing is the lack of intellectual property
regulations and copyrights. Since every step in the additive manufacturing process is an open
source, any user can create a computer aided design and use a 3D printer to print it [27]. In addition,
3D printing can be a challenge when it comes to optimizing the process and getting large number
of products that have the same mechanical and thermal properties. Post processing is a
disadvantage in 3D printing as well, usually, objects must be post processed to ensure an improved
finish and to enhance its mechanical properties. Another big disadvantage of additive
manufacturing is the limitation of materials; there are only few 3D printing techniques that are
able to use only limited sets of materials which make the issue of material availability one of the
biomedical, and dentistry. In the aerospace industry, components are complex and are usually
made from advanced materials which makes suitable to be 3D printed [29]. For example, AM is
used to fabricate complex components for satellites, jet, and helicopters engines. Selective laser
sintering 3D printing (SLS) is used for example to fabricate lightweight turbine blades. Other parts
such as vents and ducts could also be produced using 3D printing. In addition, AM techniques are
currently used to repair aircraft engine parts such as vanes, stators, seals, and rotors, which help
reduce the cost and extend the lifespan of these parts. Other industries such as the automotive
industry has also been using additive manufacturing to produce parts to avoid the high cost and
produce parts more efficiently [30]. AM has been successfully used to develop and produce various
components for motorsports. This includes parts such as gearboxes, airboxes, and motorbike’s
dashboards [31]. Using AM manufacturing to produces such parts will also help in reducing the
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weight of the part and enhances the flexibility of parts which is a big advantage for the automotive
industry.
In the biomedical field, additive manufacturing has been used to create scaffolds, artificial organs,
medical devices, and for creating biological chips by patterning cells and proteins using 3D
printing [32]. In 2012, an 83-year old woman became the first ever patient to receive a jawbone
transplant which was tailor made specifically for her using a 3D printer, in this case, using a 3D
allowed for a faster and more personalized final product [23]. In addition, 3D printing is used to
create prosthetic sockets; these sockets that compares to the structural integrity and mechanical
properties of those made by traditional manufacturing [33]. Additive manufacturing is also used
in cells and tissue engineering; in tissue engineering, bio-printing is used to create extracellular
matrices which cells and attach and grow on and is used to repair and reconstruct biological tissues
[31]. AM is also used in dentistry to create dental implants, crowns, and bridges. The main
advantage for using 3D printing in dentistry is the ability to create patient specific and complex
sewed to create architectural models which will help show what is going to be built in a very
innovative and inexpensive way. This is an example of the use of 3D printing in rapid prototyping;
in addition, using 3D printing for such purpose will help bring the model to life and at the same
There are a range of 3D printing techniques currently in the market such as fused deposition
modeling (FDM), selective laser sintering (SLS), digital light processing (DLP) and
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stereolithography (SL) 3D printing. These different techniques may use different technology to
produce an object from a computer aided design model. Technologies may include material
extrusion like in FDM, material jetting, sheet lamination, powder bed fusion, and vat photo
Fused deposition modeling was invented and patented in 1989 by Scott Crump the founder of
a 3D printing company called Stratasys [29]. FDM, also known as fused filament fabrication works
by extruding a thermoplastic polymer which will then be mechanically fed as thin filaments into
the 3D printer and heated at the nozzle (print head) of the printer to a certain temperature then
extruded on the printer’s bed by the nozzle layer by layer to create the three dimensional objects
[37]. Examples of the material used in FDM are polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene,
and Polyphenylsulfone. Even though the high temperatures in FDM limits the type of material
used in the printing process, however, being able to extrude own material from polymer allows for
some variability as this polymer may be altered or blended with other polymers to help customize
the final print or improve its mechanical and thermal properties [38]. The main advantage in FDM
is the high porosity in the produced product due to the lay down pattern and mechanical strength.
Another advantage in fused deposition modeling is the ability to print complex objects since print
head can be made to move freely and have three degrees of freedom in the x, y, and z directions
[39]. On the other hand, disadvantages of FDM include the limitation of materials since the
viscosity of these materials must be high enough to build the object and at the same time low
enough to be melted and extruded. Another disadvantage of fused deposition modeling is the
limited availability of biocompatible materials as well as the inability to incorporate living cells or
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temperature sensitive biological substances due to the high temperature during extrusion of the
material which makes FDM a non-ideal option for biological scaffolding [40].
Many studies have been done on fused deposition modeling including one study that talked about
the analysis of dimensional performance for a 3D printer based on FDM; this study compared the
effect of the printer on the accuracy of the FDM print. Two printers were used, the first one was
an industrial 3D printer and the other one was an open source 3D printer. The goal of the study
was to use factorial analysis design of experiment to optimize the printing process to improve
dimensional accuracy in length, width, and height of test specimens [41]. The study used ABS-
P400 filament to print three sets of rectangular specimens that is (18x18x8) mm in each printer
while preforming a factorial experimental plan that focused on altering the process parameters
such as slice thickness, tip size, and raster width. After that, specimens were measured using a
digital microscope with 0.01 mm accuracy. The results showed variation from the ideal value for
height (H), length (L1), and width (L2) in both printers as displayed in Figures 2.4.2 & 2.4.2.
However, changing the slice height, or the part raster will give less deviation from ideal value for
height. The study concluded that having the proper control of process parameters will improve part
quality in the industrial printer as well as the open source 3D printer [41].
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Figure 2.4.1. Comparing actual vs ideal dimensions for height (H), length (L1), and width (L2)
for samples printed using FDM 300 printer (27).
Figure 2.4.2. Comparing actual vs ideal dimensions for height (H), length (L1), and width (L2)
for samples printed using Model 1 printer (27).
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A different study on fused deposition modeling looked at the mechanical characterization of parts
fabricated by FDM. This study was a part of ongoing project to make develop FDM technique and
enable it to be used to produce the final product directly rather than being limited to prototyping.
The study used ABS material and Stratasys 1650 FDM machine. Tensile testing was performed
on the specimens as well as the ABS filaments according to ASTM 5937-96. The results showed
that the tensile strength and the young modulus for both the filament and the specimens were
similar, and that the maximum strain obtained for the specimens is on third of the one obtained for
the filament [42]. Other computational and finite element analysis was done on the printed parts
and the study concluded that layers’ size, shape, and path strongly affect the properties and
performance of the final product. It also summarized two important parameters that affect the final
product the most and those are; the building direction of the specimen and the chosen path for each
Figure 2.4.3. Tensile strength of samples for different build orientations [42].
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The study emphasized that the FDM printing parameters must be studied extensively and
optimized in order to be able to use fused deposition modeling technique to produce final parts
Relating to the medical field, one study examined the requirements for manufacturing high quality
medical models for clinics. FDM 3D printer was used to create a total of 350 different medical
models over a 6-year period. The results showed a range of unwanted artifacts on the medical
models. Results included computed tomography gantry distortion, metal, and surface roughness
due to the need to remove the support structure after printing the medical models. The study
recommended rigorous regulations and quality assurance steps that must be taken in the process
of manufacturing medical models using 3D printing techniques like FDM [43]. Such studies
explain that FDM along with other printing techniques are not yet ready to be used to manufacture
final products and that a lot of studies have to take place in the next years in order to optimize the
printing process and produce high quality products that can indeed be used in the current market.
Selective laser sintering is a 3D printing technique that was developed in 1989 by the
University of Texas [40]. It works by binding the powder particles together using a CO2 laser
beam to create thin layers that lay on top of each other. The laser heats the powder above its glass
transition temperature and scans the surface of the polymer in a specific 2D pattern (slice). This
leads to molecules to diffuse along the outermost surface creating neck formation between
neighboring particles. This process is repeated to form layer upon layer to create the 3D object.
Unused powder is then removed, and the part is heat treated to reach full density [44]. The main
advantage of selective laser sintering is that temporary structural support is not needed to create
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the 3D object unlike other 3D printing techniques such as fused deposition modeling. The main
disadvantage of SLS however is the limitation in materials that can be used since the particle size
must be under 10 um due to poor spreading and sintering too quickly which can cause edge
inaccuracies [40]. Therefore, the main parameter that affects the print quality is the particles’ size.
Another disadvantage is the need for post processing for all parts by to enhance density and remove
trapped powder in the 3D object. The most commonly used material is in SLS is PCL as well as
combinations of polyether ether ketones and hydroxyapatite [45]. Many studies have been done
on selective laser sintering and the binding mechanism involved in the process. One of these
studies has been done by the University of Leuven where they studied the different binding
mechanisms is SLS and their effect on the mechanical properties of materials. In this study, basic
binding mechanisms such as solid-state sintering, chemically induced binding, liquid phase
sintering, and full melting were studied in order to explain how these binding mechanisms apply
for sintering polymers and hard metals. The study concluded that selective laser sintering has the
advantage over all the other mechanisms studied since it allows for a wider range of materials to
be used. According to the study, the second-best mechanism was full melting which showed
improved parameters such as smaller layer thicknesses and smaller spot sizes. In addition,
improvement in these parameters resulted in better mechanical properties for the finished parts
[46]. Another study explained that effectively setting up the parameters for 3D printing using
selective laser sintering will improve the biocompatibility and mechanical properties of finished
3D object. Laser scanning speed and layer thickness were two of the parameters studied to measure
their effect on the finished parts’ porosity and pore width. The lower the layer thickness, the lower
the percent porosity of the parts will be and therefore the bonding between the different layers will
be stronger. The mechanical properties such as the yield strength and the ultimate strength were
16
also examined at different laser powers. The study found that the higher the laser power, the higher
the yield strength and the ultimate strength will be for the finished 3D printed objects. The study
explained how optimizing the mentioned parameters will eventually help produce high quality
parts that could replace the traditional manufacturing techniques [47]. These examples from the
literature show how selective laser sintering is indeed a valid option for manufacturing final parts,
however, in order to do so, certain parameters must be met and many limitations have to be
overcome; such as the high cost, the lengthy post processing approaches, and the rough surface
finish. Therefore, other 3D printing techniques such as Stereolithography play a crucial role as an
alternate to SLS and FDM techniques. The speed, high accuracy, and smooth finish of parts
SL was developed by Chuck Hull at 3D systems [4]. Photolithography is defined as using light,
usually Ultraviolet (UV) or laser light to fabricate or cure patterns and layers from a liquid type
material [48]. SL is a 3D printing technique that uses UV light to cure layer upon layer in order to
create a 3D object from a computer aided design model. SL 3D printer consists of a platform, a
resin vat, laser source, and a scanning mirror. The laser beam will be directed on the resin through
the scanning mirror to cure the first layer on the platform which moves up and down in the Z
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Figure 2.4.4. Basic stereolithography device [49].
After that, the second layer will be cured on the platform according to the CAD model, the laser
will construct each layer as a two-dimensional layer until forming an object on the platform after
creating many layers on top of each other [50]. Finally, after removing the finished object, the
remaining resin in the tank can still be used for the next operation. Usually, the 3D object will need
supports in order to adhere to the moving platform. Having more complex structures will require
more support in order to acquire a successful build. In addition, there are many parameters that
affect the structural and mechanical properties of the finished object in stereo lithography. These
parameters include the intensity of the laser light directed at the resin, the type of resin used and
its viscosity, the thickness of the individual layer, the orientation in which the object is built at,
and finally, the post processing technique followed in order to enhance the bonding between the
individual layers [51]. All of these are major factors that will determine the quality and feasibility
of the finished 3D printed object. The smooth finish, speed, low cost, and the high accuracy are
all advantages of stereolithography 3D printing. This is the reason for using SL more than other
techniques in dentistry and other industries that require high precision and accuracy. On the other
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hand, there are disadvantages in stereolithography such as the need to have support material for
the printed objects which can be time consuming to remove and can require extra post processing.
A second disadvantage is that usually, finished parts need to be post processed to remove the
excess resin and enhance the bonding between the layers to achieve high quality parts. The
[52].
Despite its few limitations, SL is still one on the most commonly used 3D printing techniques that
could one day replace traditional manufacturing. There are many applications for SL 3D printing
in various industries; one of those applications is medical modeling. SL is used to print three-
dimensional models for surgical planning with patients with facial trauma. In addition, SL is used
in reconstructive surgeries, the CAD model allows for testing forces and conditions before printing
the actual object, also, 3D printing these models using stereolithography will allow for a custom
made model that fits the patient and at the same time help fix any issues at an early stage instead
Many studies have been done on stereolithography 3D printing in order to obtain the best
properties for the final 3D printed product and therefore explore new materials for SL and new
applications where SL can match or exceed the properties of products produced by traditional
manufacturing methods. An example of these studies is a study done to investigate the effect of
build orientation on the tensile strength for SL 3D printing. A statistical design of experiment was
approached to determine how the axis, layout, and position of printed samples will affect the
ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and modulus of elasticity (E) of the final print. A 3D systems Viber
si2 3D printer was used to print 18 ASTM D-638 type I samples using a multipurpose commercial
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resin. Setting all other printing parameters constant, 18 different specimens were printed in
different axis (x, y, and 45° to axis) and at an edge or flat layout with respect to the building
platforms. After getting the samples and testing the ultimate tensile strength and modulus of
elasticity, statistical analysis showed that axis and position of the sample had no significant effect
on UTS and E. On the other hand, layout (whether samples were built flat or on an edge) showed
significant statistical difference in UTS and E with 95% level of confidence Figure 2.4.5 and 2.4.6
[54].
Figure 2.4.5. Effect of samples’ layout on the ultimate tensile strength [41].
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Figure 2.4.6. Effect of samples’ layout on modulus of elasticity [41].
The layer upon layer building technique suggests that the orientation of the samples will determine
the shape of the single layer built each time; this will then affect how the layers are connected
(crosslinked) together which will affect the ultimate tensile strength and the modulus of elasticity.
It is worth mentioning that no post processing was done of the final samples which appears to be
In a different study done by Rice University, Stereolithography was used to manufacture critical
sized 3D biodegradable scaffolds that will help with bone growth. A computer aided design (CAD)
model was constructed pro/ENGINEER software package and the prototype was printed using an
SLA 250/40 system made by 3D Systems Valencia [49]. The materials used to formulate the resin
were poly (propylene fumarate) (PPF), diethyl fumarate (DEF) solvent, and bisacylphosphine
oxide (BAPO) photoinitiator. The resin was then poured into the printer’s tank and the prototype
was printed to test the ability of the printer to build solid protrusions which according to the
21
researchers will be used to judge the effectiveness of SL 3D printing in creating biodegradable
scaffolds. The DEF/PPF resin mixture was successfully crosslinked with structure that matched
the one from the CAD model with clear holes and slots in the scaffold. These results provided
proof of concept that the SL 3D printing method can be used to manufacture custom-fitting, tissue-
engineered scaffolds for critical-size bone defect sites. This shows potential for SL 3D printing
and explains how it might be improved and used in the future to advance medicine and biology;
which are just two of many fields were stereolithography is a valid option to advance and improve
manufacturing. Stereolithography is indeed one of the first 3D printed techniques invented and the
first to be used commercially; however, it is not the only technique that uses UV light to cure a
resin in order to create a 3D object. Other techniques that use UV light were invented in order to
Another area that shows potential success in SL 3D printing in the near future is pharmaceutics.
Using 3D printing in pharmaceutics will help produce more drugs at a faster rate and lower cost;
it will also help in creating drugs that are specific in size and content for each individual which
could be a serious breakthrough in medicine [55]. Therefore, there is an increased market demand
for stereolithography 3D printing use in pharmaceuticals and recently more studies have been
exploring the use of 3D printing to develop drugs. An example of those studies is a study that used
SL 3D printer to print oral modified-release dosage forms. The goal of this study was to evaluate
the suitability of SL printing technique to fabricate drug loaded tablets with modified release
characteristics.
The materials used in this study were polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA), diphenyl (2,4,6-
(acetaminophen). After using these materials to prepare a printing solution, tablets were
22
successfully 3D printed with varying cell diameters using SL and then loaded with the drugs at
5.69% and 5.40%. Then, a realistic dynamic dissolution simulation of the gastrointestinal tract was
done, and drug was released from the tablets. Results showed that the drug release was dependent
on the composition of the formulations and completely interdependent of dissolution PH. The
study concluded that stereolithography 3D printing allows the manufacturing of drug loaded
tablets with extended release profiles that are specific and accurate (Figure 2.4.7). The study also
concluded that using SL 3D printing to produce drugs will help in the future in lowering the cost
of manufacturing pharmaceuticals and creating personalized drugs with specific release patterns.
[56]
Figure 2.4.7. Drug release percentage of different tablets varying call diameters [43].
stereolithography. The composition of material that makes up the resin will determine how the
resins will crosslink and solidify after processing using the UV light and therefore affect its
properties.
23
2.4.4 Materials Used in Stereolithography 3D Printing
There are at least four types of common resins that are used in SL 3D printing in the industry
today and these are; standard resin, engineering resin, dental and medical resin, and cast-able resin.
Picking and choosing which resin or material to use depends on the application and the mechanical
properties desired in the final object. The resin used for molding and prototyping in the market is
usually a standard resin, these resins can give high details and very smooth surface finishes,
however, these types of resins are known to be brittle and have low heat deflection temperature
[57]. The engineering resins, on the other hand, must simulate an injection molded plastic to give
the engineers a wide choice of material properties for manufacturing and prototyping. An example
of an engineering resin is tough resins, which are usually compared to ABS; these resins can
withstand high stress and strain up to 55.7 MPa and a high stiffness and are used for mechanical
assemblies [58, 59]. Another example of an engineering resin that is used in production is durable
resins; durable resins are flexible, have high wear resistance, and often compared to polypropylene.
Durable resins are being used today to produce ball joints and low friction mechanical parts, and
functional prototyping [10]. The third type of common SL resins used in the industries today is the
dental and medical resins which are divided into two classes. Class I biocompatible resin are used
to make surgical aids and appliances since it can be easily sterilized and have high precision [15].
This class must be non-invasive uses only and cannot be in contact with the body for a long time.
The second class is class II biocompatible resin, also known as long term biocompatible resins,
these resins can remain in contact with the human body for a year and are usually used for long
term dental appliances and fracture resistant medical parts. Finally, the fourth commonly used
resin in the market today is cast-able resin. Cast-able resins will usually have sharp edges and will
burn clearly without leaving any ashes or residues [58]. Their high features and details allow them
24
to be a part of the jewelry making industries, however, these resins require a lot of post processing
which can be costly and time consuming. Even though choosing the resin to 3D print with in
stereolithography is very important, however, it is not the only factor that will determine the quality
and use of the final product. Other factors such as light intensity, layer height, post processing, and
build orientation play an important role in determining the structural and mechanical properties of
Digital light Processing (DLP) was invented by Dr. Larry Hornbeck and Dr. William Nelson
in 1987 [60]. Even though this was a short while after inventing SL, DLP however took a long
time to be able to be used commercially and is relatively new to the market compared to traditional
stereolithography. The main idea in digital light processing is using a digital micro-mirror device
(DMD) to produce an image. DMD is an optical semiconductor that includes a large array of
mirrors to direct the light photons in a very high accuracy [60]. While SL 3D printing uses a laser
that moves in the X and Y directions while the platform moves in the Z direction, DLP produces
a digital mask using the DMD system that represents one layer (slice) from that CAD model and
prints it then keep producing layers until it finishes building the 3D object. A DLP 3D printer
consists of a vat or a tub where the resin is placed prior to printing, a light source (UV), DMD, and
a tilting device to replenish the uncured bottom layer of the resin. Advantages of DLP include
good accuracy, smooth surfaces, speed, and finally low cost, however, the main advantage for
digital light processing over other 3D printing techniques is the uniformity in each layer build
because while most 3D printing techniques uses a nozzle or a laser that moves in the X, Y, and Z
directions [61] . DLP uses a projection of an image which means that the entire 2D layer will be
subjected to the same conditions such as light power and direction which helps the uniformity and
25
stability of the final 3D printed object, that is also why DLP is known to produce parts that have a
very smooth finish [11]. The basic principle of DLP is displayed in Figure 2.4.8 below.
On the other hand, Digital light processing has some disadvantages such as the need to use support
material and the need to remove the support material after completing the print which can be time
consuming and can compromise the structural and mechanical properties of the 3D printed object.
In addition, DLP is only available for light curable liquid polymers which can be limited and
expensive; also, these resins are very messy and can cause irritation for the skin or eyes [61]. There
are many parameters that affect the structural and mechanical properties of the printed object such
as the building orientation of the object, light intensity, layer height, post processing. Post
processing in particular is an important parameter in DLP since each of the layers are created from
relatively large 2D digital masks which can have a poor level of polymerization due to the
pixilation of each layer having shadow areas between pixels in the 2D mask [62, 63].
As digital light processing becoming more popular, more studies have been done in order to
maximize its benefits and build on its advantages. One study looked at the effect of build
26
orientation/ angle on the dimensional full-coverage dental restorations. The dental crowns were
120,135,150,180,210,223,240, and 270) degrees. After scanning the specimens using a surface
scanner, dimensional accuracy was measured using the digital subtraction technique and then root
mean squared values were calculated. The conclusion of the study was that the build angles indeed
Figure 2.4.9. Average deviation (mm) for different build angles [52]
The lowest root mean square values were recorded for the 135 and 210 building angles.
Therefore, those were the recommended angles for manufacturing using a digital light processing
3D printer. Limitations such as the size and quality of the 3D printer affect the results for the study,
in addition, this study is specific for a dental crown of certain size and complexity and the results
A different study on digital light processing analyzed the effectiveness of modular elastomer
photoresins for DLP in additive manufacturing. The study used entry level equipment in the study
and printed using photoresins formulations that were developed by researchers using
27
Bis(propylacrylamide)poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMSDMAA), 2-Hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA),
cetrimonium bromide and other diacrylates. The study also pointed out that simple adjustments to
the resin components can allow access to a wide range of different compositions and mechanical
properties. This shows that the resin used in the 3D printing process have a high impact on the
properties of the final print along with other parameters such as the thickness of the layers and the
post processing technique. The series of resins in this study included silicon and hydrogels
hybrids. Specimens were 3D printed using SeeMeCNC Droplit DLP 3D printer and an Acer
X1161P projector using default settings with light intensity of 80 klx. The results showed
maximum elongation up to 472% under tensile loads [65]. In addition, tests specimens showed a
noticeable swelling behavior in water and Shore A hardness values from 13.7 to 33.3.
Combinations of the resins were successfully used to print a functional multi material three-armed
pneumatic gripper. The study concluded that the combination of resins can also be used for
In addition to the resin, other printing parameters affect the functionality and mechanical
properties of the 3D printed specimen using DLP. Few studies have focused on optimizing the
printing process using DLP and mentioned suggestions to follow in order to obtain what seemed
to be high mechanical and structural properties. One study attempted to investigate the influence
of the layer thickness and exposure times on the physical and mechanical properties of the printed
specimens. Surface finish, dimensions accuracy, and ultimate tensile strength were investigated to
determine the optimal printing parameters. The researchers used B9 Creators 3D DLP 3D printer
and printed B9R-1-Red specimens and tested according to ASTM standards. The results showed
that layer thickness of 50 µm and exposure time of 9 seconds had the highest tensile and flexural
28
strength as well as the lowest dimensional error. In addition, the percent difference for the
dimensional accuracy between all samples was 3.8%. In conclusion, layer thickness and exposure
time indeed affect the mechanical and structural properties of printed objects using DLP 3D
printer. Optimizing the parameters in 3D printing will help obtain quality parts that have high
While both Stereolithography and digital light processing use light to cure liquid resin to form
a solid 3-dimensional object, there are many differences between them regarding the operation
technique used as well as the properties of the final object. In terms of the printing process, the
difference remains in the way the light is applied to the liquid resin as can be seen in Figure 3.5.1.
29
In addition, DLP uses a digital micro-mirror device to project an entire layer on the printing bed,
while traditional stereolithography uses a laser light that moves different directions to be able to
cure the resin material. In addition, there are few differences in terms of the finished object between
DLP and SL. For example, DLP can achieve faster print times since an entire 2-dimensional layer
is exposed to the UV light at once. On the other hand, traditional stereolithography can have a
better surface finish depending of the object’s size and shape because DLP renders images using
rectangular voxels which leave the final object with vertical voxel lines that can affect the surface
finish [60].
Although these are differences known about the two printing techniques, there are very few studies
that look at the differences in the mechanical and thermal properties of the final printed object in
the two techniques. In addition, it is nearly unknown how the change in printing parameters will
affect the properties of the final object for the traditional stereolithography technique compared to
the relatively new DLP technique. A recent study was done by the Stenden University of Applied
Sciences used ACPR-48 commercial resin to print 3D structures as well as tensile bars using DLP
and SLA printers. Tensile strength and Young’s modulus of cured samples were determined for
Figure 2.5.2. Tensile Strength and Young’s modulus of cured samples [54].
30
The results showed that there is no significant difference in tensile strength between both printers.
However, the results showed a significant difference in Young’s modulus between the two printers.
The study also pointed out that SLA technique is thought to be more precise and appropriate for
fabrication of high resolution structures [66]. This study is an example of the few studies that
compared the two techniques; however, there is a very high probability that the results may change
when altering the parameters of the printers or the resin type used in printing. This is a good
example why the 3D printing process needs to be optimized and studied based on the varying the
printing parameters which can cause more fluctuation to the structural and mechanical properties
In this literature review, we have highlighted several 3D printing techniques and summarized
the advantages and disadvantages of these techniques along with their operating mechanism. In
addition, this review looked at studies in FDM and SLA techniques where the printing parameters
or post processing parameters where changed and the effect on the final product was investigated.
The studies have concluded that in FDM, the mechanical properties of the final object are affected
by the layer height and build orientation. Another study on stereolithography 3D printing has found
that the time of post processing directly relates to the tensile strength of the final object. Although,
there were several studies on FDM and SLA, there are less studies on the effect of printing
parameters on products printed using digital light processing technique and even lesser studies that
compare SLA and DLP. In addition, several examples of material development in the literature
have pointed out the constant need to develop inexpensive biodegradable based material as the
limitation of raw material is still one of the biggest limitations in 3D printing today.
31
Chapter 3
3.1 Abstract
and Digital Light Processing are two techniques that use photopolymerization in order to convert
a computer aided design to a 3D object. While stereolithography is one of the first 3D printing
techniques, digital light processing is an emerging technique that haven’t been around for a long
time. The investigation of effect of printing and process paraments on the structural and thermal
properties of the final samples seems to be lacking in the literature. The objective of this study is
to determine the effect of different process parameters on the thermal and structural properties of
the 3D printed samples. In this study, printing parameters such as layer height and post processing
were altered for both printing techniques. Degree of curing, swelling and degradation percentage,
as well as thermal stability were studied. The result indicated that the traditional SLA technique
showed a higher degree of curing and thermal stability compared to Digital Light Processing. In
addition, the results found that decreasing the layer height of the printed specimen have improved
the degree of curing and thermal stability in both techniques. Similarly, post processing
significantly increased the degree of curing. Post curing the samples for a longer time yielded
32
3.2 Introduction
Manufacturing comes from the French word for ‘’made by hand’’, however, this etymological
origin which was used to describe traditional subtractive manufacturing is no longer applicable
today because additive manufacturing works by building layers from the bottom up in order to
create a 3 dimensional object [67] . Additive manufacturing (AM) is defined by ASTM F2792 as
the process of joining materials to make objects from 3 dimensional model data, usually layer upon
layer [68]. AM proposes tremendous potential changes to the way manufacturing industries is
running today. Relaying on AM in the future will cause reduction in assembly lines and supply
chains for a lot of products which will not only help the process to be lean but will bring more
inventory and help industries supply the needed quantities to the market faster and more efficiently.
In addition, when compared with traditional manufacturing AM could potentially reduce the waste
of material and resources as well as the amount of energy consumed in order to manufacture parts.
This can play a major role in conserving resources (material and energy) and thus have a positive
technologies can be of great benefit to other industries including emerging fields such as the
The reason behind the limited use of AM in the industry today regardless of its advantages and
perks is the many limitations that could stop 3D printing from replacing traditional manufacturing
such as the lack of repeatability in production and the limitation of materials [71]. Additionally,
the quality of printed objects can be lower than ones manufactured traditionally due to the layer
by layer process which could affect the finish of the final product [72-75]. Other limitations for
some 3D printing technologies include the need to post process the final object after printing which
33
can consume a high amount of time and energy [76]. The need for post processing is a resultant of
the relatively low structural and thermal properties of the final printed products. Many recent
reports have investigated additive manufacturing techniques and processes to overcome its
limitations [77-79].
3D printing techniques can be divided into three categories; powder based, solid based, and liquid
based techniques [80]. An example of powder based and solid based 3D printing is selective laser
sintering and laminated object manufacturing (LOM) respectively [81] [82]. Lastly, liquid based
3D printing can be divided into two categories; melting and polymerization. Fused deposition
modeling is an example of melting techniques while stereolithography and digital light processing
where light is used to initiate and propagate a polymerization reaction in order to create a
printing where a beam of laser ultraviolet light targets the liquid resin to solidify it.
Stereolithography was first developed by 3D Systems, Inc. and is one of the oldest 3D printing
techniques [23]. Although, stereolithography has been very established within 3D printing
photopolymerizable technologies, newer techniques such as digital light processing have been
introduced in recent years as alternate options for photocuring [84]. Unlike stereolithography,
digital light processing (DLP) have a digital micromirror device that will produce a 2-dimensional
image from the computer aided design model. This image represents an entire 2D layer of the final
object and UV light will cure the entire layer simultaneously [85].
Numerous literature reports have indicated that the mechanical properties of the 3D printed part is
strongly influenced by printing and process parameters [86-91]. For example, a study done by
Formlabs investigated how the ultimate tensile strength of the final printed object is affected by
34
time and array wavelength in stereolithography 3D printing. The study compared 365 nm, 385 nm,
and 405 nm wavelengths and exposed the samples to light for 120 minutes. The results showed an
increase in the ultimate tensile strength as a result of the wavelength increase. The highest tensile
strength recorded was for the 405 nm at 60 minutes. This showed that wavelength and time of
exposure to light have a major effect on the mechanical properties for the printed material [10].
Similarly, another report has investigated the influence of layer thickness on the mechanical
properties in stereolithography. Specimens were printed with 100, 125, and 150 µm. The results
stated that the increase of the layer thickness reduced the samples’ ultimate tensile strength (UTS),
yield strength (YS) and impact strength (IS) [5]. This study concluded that process parameters
Although, there exits several reports on SLA based technologies [3, 5-10], there are limited reports
on DLP based 3D printing technologies [11-14], and even lesser reports on comparative analysis
of SLA and DLP technologies [15]. A study has been done to investigate the ability of digital light
developed an ink which was a mixture of photocurable polymers and multi-walled carbon
nanotubes (MWCNTs) and investigated the effect of (MWCNTs) concentration on the conductive
properties of the final panted object. The study found that 0.30 wt.% of (MWCNTs) in the resin
mixture yielded the maximum electrical conductivity of 0.027S/m. The study demonstrated the
versatility of DLP 3D printing and its ability to print electrical conductive complex structures [14].
A different study has compared the tensile strength and Young’s modulus of samples printed using
stereolithography and digital light processing. This study used two resins, one commercial resin
and another resin which was developed by the researchers for this specific study. The results
indicated that there was no significant difference in tensile strength and elastic modulus between
35
the two printing techniques [66]. While the study focused on the mechanical properties of the
printed specimens, the printing process was always standardized. The investigation of the effect
of printing and process paraments on the structural and thermal properties of the final samples
seems to be lacking in the literature. Similarly, additional studies on comparative analysis of SLA
vs DLP is needed to determine the effectiveness of this technology as compared to the industry
standard SLA technology. This manuscript presents a comparative analysis of DLP and SLA,
investigating the effect of different process parameters i.e. number of layers and post curing
Prior to printing, 2 inch diameter discs were designed in SolidWorks software and then
converted to standard tessellation language (STL) files [92]. Subsequently, specimens with
different layer heights (0.100, 0.05, and 0.025) mm were 3D printed using XYZ printing Nobel
1.0 SLA 3D Printer and Wanhao Duplicator 7 DLP 3D printer using commercial Monocure clear
resin (3DR3582C).
While varying the layer thickness of each sample, all other parameters were set to the default and
recommended settings in XYZ Nobel and CreationWorshop_D7 software for SLA and DLP
printers respectively. After that, three specimens were printed using each printer and post cured
using XYZ UV curing chamber with 405 mW light intensity for 10, 20, and 30 minutes. Finally,
all samples were washed in isopropanol to polish off uncured resin at the surface of the printed
samples.
36
3.3.2 Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR)
Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis was carried out to determine the
degree of curing of the liquid resin. This method of determining degree of curing is well established
and reported in the literature [93-97]. FTIR was performed in the attenuated total reflection (ATR)
mode using Avatar 360 FT-IR machine at a resolution of 4 cm-1 for each sample as well as for the
uncured clear commercial resin and repeated three times. The degree of curing (DC) was
determined by analysis of the methacrylate (C=C) stretch absorption at 1,638 cm-1 (aliphatic bond).
After curing, the C=C would be broken and combined with other similar groups resulting in
decrease of the C=C stretch. An internal standard peak was designated to be at 1581 cm-1 (aromatic
bond). This peak has been used as internal standard for similar determinations. The degree of
curing was determined using EQ. (1) and EQ. (2) below [97].
[𝐴𝑏𝑠(𝐴𝑙𝑖𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐/𝐴𝑏𝑠(𝐴𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐)]𝑃𝑜𝑙𝑦𝑚𝑒𝑟
(%(𝐶 = 𝐶)) = (1)
[𝐴𝑏𝑠(𝐴𝑙𝑖𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐴𝑏𝑠 (𝐴𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐)]𝑚𝑜𝑛𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑟
Where Abs is the area or height of the absorbance peak in the spectrum. The curing percentage
was calculated using equations (1) and (2) for (0.1, 0.05, and 0.025) mm samples from each printer
as well as for the post cured samples at 10, 20, and 30 minutes.
37
All relevant data was organized as mean ± standard deviation. One-way ANOVA, Fisher test was
performed with a 0.05 significance level to determine whether the difference in the degree of
Swelling test was conducted according to ASTM D570 [98]. Two-inch diameter disc
specimens were weighed and then immersed entirely in distilled water at room temperature, after
24 hours, specimens were removed and patted with paper towels to dry then weighed to the nearest
0.001 gram. The percentage swelling was calculated using EQ. (3) below.
𝑊2−𝑊1
𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑆𝑤𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 = ( ) ∗ 100 % (3)
𝑊1
Where W2 is the weight of the specimens after immersion in the solvent, and W1 is the weight of
Degradation test was conducted according to ASTM D543 [99]. The rationale for this test is
to evaluate the resistance of the printed specimens to phosphate buffered saline (PBS), toluene and
water. Two-inch desk specimens were completely immersed in each solvent for seven days at room
temperature. After 7 days, samples were individually removed from solvent and dried then
reweighted to determine the weight difference before and after immersion. The percentage
𝑊1−𝑊2
𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝐷𝑒𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 = ( ) ∗ 100 % (4)
𝑊1
38
Where W1 is the weight of the specimens before immersion in the solvent, and W2 is the weight
temperature range of 25-610 °C was applied at a heating scan rate of 10 degrees / minute under a
nitrogen atmosphere. In addition, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) was performed using
NETZSCH DSC 204F1 Phoenix. Approximately 30 mg of each samples was placed is DSC
aluminum pans then heated at 10 °C/minute from 25 – 200 °C under nitrogen atmosphere then
held isothermal at 200 °C for 10 minutes and finally cooled back to 25 °C at same rate of 10 °C/
minute.
3.4.1 FTIR
Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis was carried out to determine the
degree of curing of the liquid resin. The intensity of the C=C peaks before and after curing was
analyzed. Figure 3.4.1 shows a representative FTIR spectra of a cured and uncured resin.
Observing Figure 3.4.1, we can see that the spectra showed a decrease in the signal at 1638 cm -1
for the cured material compared to the uncured resin. The peak at 1581 cm -1 (aromatic bond) was
used as an internal standard as this would not change after curing. The spectra before and after
curing was normalized to the internal standard and degree of curing was calculated using equations
1& 2.
39
Uncured Resin
Internal
Standard
Cured Samples
The decrease in the signal corresponding to C=C bonding at 1638 cm-1 for the cured specimens
as compared to the uncured resin (Figure 3.4.1), is a clear indication of curing of samples [15].
The reason behind the decrease in the intensity of the C=C peak after curing is the breakdown of
the double bond and the formation of crosslinks and entanglements (apparent crosslinks) in the
molecular structure which take place as the photo initiator in the resin will help form these
molecular chains in order to solidify the resin after being exposed to UV light from the printer.
The effect of layer height on the degree of curing was analyzed. Figure 3.4.2 shows the effect
of layer height (0.100 mm, 0.050 mm and 0.025 mm) on the degree of curing percentage. From
40
Figure 3.4.2, we can see that for SLA photocuring, as the layer height decreased from 0.100 mm
to 0.050 mm and 0.25mm, the DC increased from 53.67% ± 2.08 to 60.33% ± 1.52 and 63.53% ±
2.20 respectively. Similarly, for DLP photocuring, as the layer height decreased from 0.100 mm
to 0.050 mm and 0.025 mm, the DC increased from 43.30% ± 6.46 to 51.10% ± 4.00 and 59.73%
± 3.41 respectively. Comparing SLA vs DLP we see that at lowest layer height (0.025 mm) SLA
resulted in 63.53 ± 2.20 while DLP resulted in a 59.73% ± 3.41 DC. Statistical analysis indicated
that for SLA, (0.050 and 0.025) mm LH samples cured significantly higher than 0.100 mm. Similar
trends for DLP were shown resulting in the DC for 0.025 mm being significantly higher than both
0.100 and 0.050 mm LH samples. The difference in the degree of curing between SLA and DLP
was significant only at 0.050 mm LH. It was seen that at 0.050 mm, SLA cured samples higher
than DLP.
The increase of the degree of curing as the height of the printed layer is decreased can be explained
by understanding the time of exposure to the UV light in the 3D printer. If the height of the layers
is smaller, i.e. 0.025 mm as supposed to 0.100 mm, this will result in a higher number of layers
that are lower in thickness, these thinner layers will be exposed to the same amount of light
compared to the 0.100 mm thick layers, furthermore, the thin layers will result in a higher exposure
to UV light for the entire sample, because thin layers will allow for a high light penetration through
41
Figure 3.4.2. Impact of layer height and printing technique on the degree of curing.
Several literature reports investigating 3D printing photocuring processes have indicated that post
curing the parts led to increased and complete curing of the printed parts [78, 79]. For our studies
on the impact of layer height on DC, it was seen that the the highest layer height (0.100 mm)
resulted in the lowest DC, 53.67% ± 2.08 for SLA and 43.30% ± 6.46 for DLP. Hence for our
studies to investigate the effect of post curing we proceeded with the 0.100 mm layer height (Fig.3
The effect of post processing times on the degree of curing was analyzed. Figure 3.4.3 shows the
effect of post curing times (10 min, 20 min and 30 min) and photocuring process (SLA and DLP)
42
on the degree of curing percentage. From figure 3.4.3, we can see that for SLA photocuring, as
the time of post curing increased from zero minutes (no post curing) to 10, 20, and 30 minutes, the
degre of curing increased from 53.67 % ± 2.08 to 73.20% ± 2.31, then to 75.133 ±1.589, and finally
to 77.43 % ± 0.981 respectivly. Similarly for DLP photocuring, as the time of post processing
increased from no post curing to 10, 20, and 30 minutes, the degree of curing increased form
43.30% ± 6.46, to 75.10% ± 3.33, then to 77.63% ± 1.80, and finally to 80.53% ± 2.11 respectivly.
Comparing the two techniques, we see that 30 minutes of post curing resulted in the highest degree
of curing at 77.43 % ± 0.981 and 80.53% ± 2.11 for SLA and DLP respectivly. Statistical analysis
indicated that for SLA, the diffrences between no post curing and post cured samples for 10, 20,
and 30 minutes were statistically significant. In addition, post curing the SLA samples for 30
minutes cured them significantly higher than 10 minutes. Similar trends were observed in DLP
samples, the diffrences between no post curing and post cured samples (10, 20, &30 minutes) were
statistically significant. However, unlike SLA, there was no significant difference between 10, 20,
and 30 minutes of post curing for DLP samples. In addition, the difference in the degree of curing
between SLA and DLP after 10, 20, and 30 minutes of post curing was statistically insignificant.
The post curing process, which requires placing the specimens in a UV chamber for a certain
amount of time had a positive effect on the degree of curing, the results showed an increase in the
degree of curing as the post processing time increased for both printing techniques. This is because
placing the sample under further UV light in the curing chamber will help cure the remaining
uncured resin in the sample, this will also cause the layers in the sample to integrate and connect
43
Figure 3.4.3. also shows a relatively large gap in the degree of curing between samples with no
post processing and post processed samples for 10 minutes, however, after 10 minutes, it is hard
to see a large increase in the degree of curing; because while the samples are in the curing chamber
for a longer time, i.e. 30 minutes, the entanglements in the molecular chains are more difficult to
form and the degree of curing is harder to increase because of the lack of flexibility in the chains
Figure 3.4.3. Effect of post processing time and curing method on the degree of curing.
44
3.4.3 Swelling
After confirming the curing of the liquid resin using FTIR, swelling test was conducted to
study the structural integrity of the samples and to test samples’ hydrophilicity. Since 0.100 mm
layer height (LH) sample was cured the least based on the degree of curing calculation with only
43.30% ± 6.46 for DLP and 53.67% ± 2.08 for SLA, swelling test was initially performed on those
samples. Swelling and degradation of material are based on the material composition and the
structural integrity of the material. Since the resin was standardized for all prints, we intended to
investigate the swelling with the samples that were cured the least as the low degree of curing
would result in less consumption of C=C bonds, therefore, less polymerization and entanglements
(less crosslinking density) are taking place which can leave the material to be more vulnerable to
swell.
0.100 mm LH disc samples were immersed in water for 24 hours, discs were taken out, dried, and
reweighted to calculate the weight difference before and after immersion in water. The results
(Table 3.4.1) showed that the samples had 0% swelling after 24 hours of immersion in water.
3.4.4 Degradation
Degradation test was carried out to determine the long-term effect of certain solvents on the
printed specimens. Two-inch desk specimens were weighted then completely immersed in three
45
solvents for seven days at room temperature, after 7 days, samples were taken out and reweighted
to evaluate the resistance of the printed specimens to phosphate buffered saline (PBS), toluene and
water. From Table 3.4.2, we can see that the samples showed 0% degradation after immersion for
7 days.
Water and Toluene were used as solvents as recommended by ASTM D543, on the other hand,
PBS was used because of its similarity to the biological environment. The lack of degradation of
the specimens in those solvents is an indication of strong structural properties for the specimens.
Such test will also play a role in determining the ideal application for the 3D printed objects. For
example, the DLP 0.100 mm LH used in this study is not ideal for applications where
hydrophilicity is desired or where the sample is needed to degrade over a short period of time.
1 Toluene 0% 7 days
2 Pbs 0% 7 days
3 Water 0% 7 days
Studying the samples’ resistance to various solvents will help save time and eliminate cost when
it comes to printing products for specific applications, because printing 0.100 mm layer height
with no post processing takes almost 4 times less in time than printing a 0.025 mm sample with 30
minutes of post curing. In addition, since those 0.100 mm LH samples failed to swell or degrade,
there was no need to perform those experiments on other samples with higher degree of curing
46
since those samples will be more polymerized and less flexible than 0.100 mm LH samples and
3.4.5 DSC
DSC was performed on the samples to determine the effect of layer height and post processing
on the thermal stability. Figure 3.4.4 shows the effect of decreasing the layer height from 0.100
mm to 0.050 mm and 0.025 mm on the heat flow in the DSC chamber for SLA. At lower layer
height (0.025 mm), no transitions were observed while increasing the temperature, on the other
hand, 0.050 mm layer height showed a transition around 50 °C which might be associated with a
short-range movement of the polymer chains within the network structure due to increasing the
temperature. Comparing the two samples after 80 °C; we find that even though the lack of distinct
exothermic peaks is a mutual, Figure 3.4.4 shows an increase in the enthalpy of relaxation for the
0.025 mm LH sample.
47
3.5
3
Heat Flow uV/mg
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220
Temperature ℃
SLA 0.050 LH SLA 0.025 LH
Figure 3.4.4. Effect of layer height on the thermal stability for SLA.
According to previous findings in this study, 0.025 mm sample has a higher degree of curing.
When the sample is more cured, after from having a higher crosslinking density it may also cause
the molecular chains to have more entanglements and create apparent crosslinks, higher
crosslinking in the chains will cause them to be less flexible and therefore they will require higher
temperature to cause the molecular segments to shift and eventually cause the transition from one
state to the other. Even though there were differences in the heat flow between the two samples,
the lack of distinct glass transition peaks validated that optimal curing had been reached for both
samples [100].
48
Figure 3.4.5 shows the effect of post processing on the thermal stability of SLA samples. From
Figure 3.4.5, it can be seen that (SLA 20+ minutes post processed) has a transition around 73 °C,
which indicates a possible short range motions of chain segments within the network structure,
while (SLA no post processing) has two small transitions around 65 °C and 150 °C. Comparing
the two samples, (SLA 20+ minutes post processed) sample resulted in an overall higher enthalpy
of relaxation for the transitions. In addition, the lack of distinct exothermic peaks points to high
3.5
3
Heat Flow uV/mg
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220
Temperature ℃
SLA NO POST PROCESSING SLA 20+ Min Post Processing
Figure 3.4.5. Effect of post processing on the thermal stability for SLA.
Similar trends were observed for the effect of layer height on the heat flow for DLP samples as
shown in Figure 3.4.6 below. Even though there were some transition peaks as the temperature
49
increased, no distinct exothermal peaks were observed. In addition, lower layer height resulted in
a higher enthalpy (heat flow) in the DSC chamber which indicated higher curing and superior
thermal stability. Similar results were observed in the effect of post processing on the thermal
3.5
3
Heat Flow uV/mg
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220
Temperature ℃
DLP 0.100 LH DLP 0.025 LH
Figure 3.4.6. Effect of layer height on the thermal stability for DLP.
SLA and DLP samples were compared in DSC at an identical layer height (0.100 mm) with no
post processing. Figure 3.4.8 shows that SLA 0.100 mm LH sample has a higher enthalpy of
relaxation for the transitions at 68 °C and 155 °C. The DLP samples shows no transitions, which
is an indication of the limited segmental mobility in the sample. Comparing the two samples, both
50
samples lacked a clear glass transition peak, but more energy was generated to account for any
apparent changes in the SLA sample. This is an indication of a higher thermal stability for SLA
samples.
3.5
3
Heat Flow uV/mg
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220
Temperature ℃
DLP NO POST PROCESSING DLP 20+ Min Post Processing
Figure 3.4.7. Effect of post processing on the thermal stability for SLA.
51
3.5
3
Heat Flow uV/mg
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220
Temperature ℃
SLA 0.100 LH DLP 0.100 LH
Figure 3.4.8. DSC results for SLA vs DLP at 0.100 mm layer height.
Furhtermore, SLA and DLP samples were compared in DSC after 20+ minutes of post processing.
From Figure 3.4.9, we can see that SLA sample has a small transition peak at 75 °C. Similarly,
DLP sample has a small transition peak at 73 °C. Comparing the two samples, it is clear that even
though both sample had a transition peak, more energy was consumed in attempting to increase
the segmental mobility for SLA compared to DLP sample. Furthermore, the lack of ditinct
52
3.5
3
Heat Flow uV/mg
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220
Temperature ℃
SLA 20+ Min Post Processing DLP 20+ Min Post Processing
Figure 3.4.9. DSC results for SLA vs DLP post processed for 20+ minutes.
3.4.6 TGA
samples to examine their thermal stability. Figure 3.4.10 below shows the percent weight
degradation as a result of increasing the temperature on various layer heights (0.0100 mm and
0.025 mm), as well as post processed samples for 30 minutes. The change in layer height didn’t
affect the decomposition rate of SLA samples. Figure 3.4.10 shows that the stage from 370 – 500
°C represents the decomposition of the bulk crosslinked networks in the sample. TGA also
indicated that SLA samples are thermally stable up to 350 °C. Similarly, post processing had no
Similar trends were seen for DLP samples where decreasing the layer height from 0.100 mm to
0.050 mm and 0.025 mm had no effect on the thermal stability of the samples. Moreover, from
Figure 3.4.11, we can see that post curing had no effect on the thermal decomposition of the post
53
cured DLP samples. Figure 3.4.11 shows similar trends as previously where 370 – 500 °C was the
region of bulk decomposition, and samples were thermally stable up to 350 °C. In addition, no
difference was noted between stereolithography and digital light processing techniques in terms of
thermal degradation and stability. Finally, the total percent mass loss of all samples was
approximately 90.0% mass loss achieved around 590 °C for all samples. Thus, samples printed
using SLA and DLP have high thermal stability up to 350 °C. In addition, since altering the printing
parameters, post processing, and changing the printing techniques did not change the
decomposition rate for the different samples, this might be an indication that decomposition of the
samples is controlled solely by the type of polymers chains in the network structure rather than the
110
100
sla 01
90
80
Weight (%)
70 sla 025
60
50
sla 30
40
30
20
10
300 350 400 450 500 550
Temperature (℃)
Figure 3.4.10. TGA curves for SLA 0.100 mm layer height versus 0.025 mm layer height and
30-minute post cured sample.
54
110
100 sla 01
90 sla 30
Weight (%)
80
dlp 01
70
dlp30
60
50
40
30
20
10
300 320 340 360 380 400 420 440 460 480 500
Temperature (℃)
Figure 3.4.11. TGA curves for SLA vs DLP at 0.100 mm and 30 minute of post processing.
3.5 Conclusion
This study has examined the effect of printing parameter such as layer height and post
processing on the degree of curing, structural, and thermal properties of the printing specimens for
stereolithography versus digital light processing. The results showed that decreasing the layer
height for SLA and DLP to 0.025 mm will increase the degree of curing significantly. Similarly,
post curing SLA and DLP samples will significantly increase their degree of curing as compared
to non-post cured samples. Stereolithography cured samples higher than the relatively new digital
light processing, however, the difference was only significant when printing with 0.050 mm layer
height. On the other hand, decreasing the layer height as well as post curing the samples had no
effect on the sample’s reaction to different solvents (PBS, water, and toluene), or their thermal
degradation. This points to the high structural and thermal properties of samples printed using SLA
and DLP. Finally, DSC results showed that decreasing the layer height and curing the samples for
55
a longer time has a positive effect on their thermal stability as that will also increase their degree
of curing.
56
Chapter 4
The tremendous growth of 3D printing calls for the need to develop new, environmentally
friendly raw materials. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the fabrication and
resins were developed using Poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA), Glycerol 1,3-
achieved for 13 formulations. Percent yield and degree of curing were investigated. Multiple
formulations resulted in a relatively high degree of curing and high percent yield. PGD-1 (1:1:1
molar ratio of PEGDA: GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA) formulation resulted in the highest degree of
curing at approximately 60 % and a high percent yield of 98 %. In general, the degree of curing
increased as a result of increasing the molar ratio of the crosslinking agent. In addition, PEGDA
based resins had a higher degree of curing and percent yield than GDGDA based resins. Swelling
properties were also assed and correlated with the resin’s molecular composition. Increasing the
molar ratio of the crosslinking agent has decreased the percentage swelling in the formulations, on
the other hand, adding PEGDA to the formulations improved their swelling properties. The need
to develop biodegradable based, biomedically relevant photocurable material has emerged from
the constant need for new raw materials suitable for photolithography-based 3D printing to replace
57
4.2 Introduction
In recent years, the shift towards additive manufacturing has increased due to its cost
effectiveness and ability to produce tailored products at a higher rate [2]. Furthermore, additive
manufacturing (AM) has a direct and positive effect on manufacturing due to its ability to shorten
supply chains and continually improve manufacturing processes [1]. Additive manufacturing
works by converting a 3-dimensional design into an object by creating several layers, layer by
layer, and binding them together to produce the final object. [103] [104]. There are many AM
techniques around us today with different binding mechanisms. Fused deposition modeling (FDM)
melts the raw material at a certain temperature to create the layers used to make the final product
[23]. FDM is one of the oldest and most used 3D printing techniques today. It is unique for its
speed, and ability to print with biocompatible materials [50]. Another example of additive
manufacturing (also known as 3D printing) is selective laser sintering (SLS). Selective laser
sintering is a powder-based 3D printing technique where the powder acts as a support material for
the object undergoing manufacturing [105, 106]. This attribute makes SLS one of the preferred
techniques to build objects with high complexity. Stereolithography (SLA) and digital light
processing (DLP) are other examples of 3D printing techniques. SLA and DLP are liquid based
additive manufacturing processes where light is used to cure a liquid resin material and create the
final object [3, 4]. While both SLA and DLP are liquid based, SLA uses a laser beam of light while
DLP uses a light source and binary photomask in order to cure the resin [60].
expanding due to its high resolution and ability to create complex objects with higher accuracy
than other additive manufacturing techniques [9]. The way photolithography (also known as
58
at the raw material (liquid resin) in order to create the first layer, after the creation of the first layer
and allowing it to adhere to the platform of the 3D printer, then, the platform is risen again in order
for the second layer to be created and attached to the first one [107].
Photopolymerization based 3D printing has a variety of applications in the different industries such
as automotive, aerospace, electronics and bio-robotics [16-18]. One of the main industries that can
benefit from this technology is the biomedical industry. Stereolithography has already been used
in the biomedical field in modeling as well as a prototyping tool for medical devices and prostheses
[3, 7, 108]. In addition, many recent studies have focused on the use of photopolymerization 3D
printing in the medical field including dentistry and tissue engineering [109] [110]. One study
examined the production of tissue engineered scaffolds using photopolymerizable hydrogels and
stereolithography to repair defects caused by accidents, surgery, and birth. Elasticity and cell
viability of the printed samples have pointed to the successful fabrication of bioengineered
scaffolds using SLA [8]. Another study has used digital light processing to 3D print antagonistic
systems of artificial muscles. A photocurable resin was characterized using tensile testing to assess
its ability to print a high degree of freedom actuators. After that, DLP was used to create single-
channel actuator. The study has successfully used photolithography to create a multi degree of
freedom soft actuators with complex internal designs and comparable actuation times to living
muscles [111].
Despite the rising potential for photopolymerization based 3D printing, many limitations need to
be addressed before relaying completely on this type of manufacturing to create final parts and
assemblies in various industries. The need for support material, the need for post processing, and
the lack of optimal mechanical characteristics in the finished goods are examples of limitation in
59
photopolymerization based 3D printing, but perhaps, there is no greater limitation in SLA and DLP
than the lack of new materials and the limitations in resin material customization [3, 112].
The limitation in the availability and high cost of the photocurable resins are a massive throwback
that can only be overcome by research and development of new photopolymerizable resins. In
recent years, several studies and efforts have been conducted to create a wide range of materials
that can be used for photocuring. One study developed soluble photopolymers to substitute the
mold martials and create a variety of materials that can be used in AM. Then the study was able to
successfully control the architecture of the 3D printed molds created by the developed resin. In
addition, the study investigated the development of acrylamide based bio-photopolymers to use
Another study has described the development of a novel polyether(meth)acrylate-based resins with
adjustable properties suitable for stereolithography 3D printing. The study focused on the ability
to alter the mechanical properties along with other properties as a result of changing the
concentration of two major components in the resin [113]. After that, the study confirmed the
variability in the materials’ properties such as the Young’s modulus, tensile strength, and hardness
as a result of changing the material composition in the formulations. In conclusion, the study
successfully demonstrates that variable properties of resin could be obtained based on the varying
molecular composition of the resin formulation and this could be used to increase the material
selection for stereolithography 3D printing. The studies presented above along with other studies
from the literature are examples of an ongoing efforts to develop new photocurable material to
However, even with the new resin development attempts in the literature, the use of
stereolithography and digital light processing in the different industries today is still limited
60
because most resins in the market are expensive, fossil-fuel based, and cannot match the properties
of traditional manufactured objects [50, 118, 119]. Also, the demand for photocurable material is
increasing as a result to the tremendous increase of demand for additive manufactured products
in the different industries and the limited number of photocurable resins developed [6, 118, 120].
Therefore, developing low cost, environmentally friendly material for stereolithography and
digital light processing is still an important need to advance additive manufacturing, specially
The objective of this study is to develop a novel biodegradable based photocurable resin suitable
for photolithography-based curing systems such as stereolithography and digital light processing
3D printers. The purpose of the development of the new material is to increase the diversity and
provide wider range of materials that can be used in additive manufacturing. To achieve the
objectives of this study, we have examined the feasibility of poly (ethylene glycol) and glycerol-
based polymers to act as base materials for a new photocurable resins. Polyethylene glycol is a
biodegradable polyether which is soluble in aqueous solutions and organic solvents [122]. Its low
toxicity, hydrophilicity, and high biocompatibility are the reasons behind its wide use in the
biomedical field in applications such as drug delivery, wound dressing, and tissue engineering
diagnostics. [123-128]. Polyethylene glycol is usually modified by adding acrylates to allow for
polymerization in the presence of a photo initiator [129]. Glycerol is another biomedically relevant
agent which is widely used in the biomedical field such as in drug delivery and tissue engineering
[130-133]. Its nontoxicity, biocompatibility, and biodegradability are reasons for its wide use in
61
4.3 Materials and Methods
4.3.1 Materials
Poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA 700 mw), Glycerol 1,3-diglycerolate diacrylate
were all purchased form Sigma–Aldrich, USA and used without further purification.
a photo initiator and was kept at a constant concentration of 5% (w/w) for all resin formulations.
The photoinitiator function is to absorb the photons of the ultra violet light (UV) to initiate
consecutive reactions in order to convert low viscosity monomer into a polymerized matrix [135].
Another essential component in any photocurable resin is the crosslinker, in this case,
crosslinking agent which helped create entanglements and crosslinks with the other linear chain
polymers (PEGDA) and (GDGDA) to transform the resin into a solid material [136]. Figure 4.3.1
(1)
(3)
(2)
Figure 4.3.1: The chemical structure of (1): PEGDA, (2): GDGDA, & (3): DI-TAMPTA.
62
4.3.2 Poly (ethylene glycol) Diacrylate Based Resins
A poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate based resin development was carried out in a darkened
fume hood. A total of three formulations were developed according to predetermined molar ratios
as displayed in Table 4.3.1 below to investigate the effect of PEGDA and DI TAMPTA on the
resin’s properties. Each formulation consisted of PEGDA as a base polymer, a crosslinker (DI
TAMPTA) and a constant amount of photoinitiator (5% w/w). After casting the components for
each resin into a plastic mold to be cured, 5% (w/w) of photoinitiator was added and the resulting
transparent resin was stirred for 5 minutes to ensure homogeneity. After that, each resin was
allowed to sit for 10 minutes at room temperature in the dark to help eliminate bubbles. Finally,
each resin was placed in an XYZ™ UV curing chamber at 405 mW light intensity for 30 minutes
to be cured. After 30 minutes, all samples have successfully solidified, then, samples were taken
out and washed with isopropanol to polish off uncured resin at the surface of the samples and then
characterized.
carried out. A total of three formulations were developed as shown in Table 4.3.2 below to
63
investigate the effect of GDGDA and DI TAMPTA on the resin’s properties. Each resin consisted
photoinitiator (5% (w/w)). Finally, samples were placed in the curing chamber for 30 minutes to
A copolymer-based resin development was carried out. A total of three formulations were
developed according to various molar ratios as displayed in Table 4.3.3 below to investigate the
effect of GDGDA and PEGDA on the resin’s properties in the absence of DI TAMPTA
(crosslinker). Each resin consisted of different ratios of PEGDA and GDGDA to make up the base
copolymer, and a constant amount of photoinitiator (5% (w/w)). Finally, samples were placed in
the curing chamber for 30 minutes to cure under 405 mW light intensity.
64
Table 4.3.3: Composition (molar ratio) of copolymer-based resins.
were developed according to predetermined molar ratios as displayed in Table 4.3.3 below to
investigate the effect of PEGDA, GDGDA and DI-TAMPTA on the resin’s properties. Each
as well as a constant amount of photoinitiator (5% (w/w)). Sample (PG-1) from previous
formulations (Table 4.3.3) was used as a control group. All sample were cured under similar
65
GDGDA (molar ratio) 1 1 1 1 10
Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was performed in the attenuated total
reflection (ATR) mode using Avatar 360 FT-IR machine at a resolution of 4 cm-1 for each sample
before and after curing to confirm its successful polymerization [15, 97]. After that, the degree of
curing (DC) was calculated by measuring the decrease of the methacrylate (C=C) stretch
absorption at 1,638 cm-1 after setting an internal standard peak at 1735 cm-1 for both the cured and
uncured sample. The degree of curing was calculated using EQ. (1) and EQ. (2) below.
[𝐴𝑏𝑠(𝐴𝑙𝑖𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐/𝐴𝑏𝑠(𝐴𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐)]𝑃𝑜𝑙𝑦𝑚𝑒𝑟
(%(𝐶 = 𝐶)) = (1)
[𝐴𝑏𝑠(𝐴𝑙𝑖𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝐴𝑏𝑠 (𝐴𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐)]𝑚𝑜𝑛𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑟
Where % (C=C) is the percentage of unreacted aliphatic C=C bonds remaining after the
polymerization reaction. And, Abs is the area or height of the absorbance peak in the spectrum.
Percent yield was calculated to determine the percentage of the resin that was successfully
solidified for each sample. The weight for each sample was recorded before and after curing and
66
(𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝐵𝑒𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝐶𝑢𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔)
𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑌𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 = ( (𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝐴𝑓𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝐶𝑢𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔) ) ∗ 100 % (3)
percent yield may trigger the need to alter the formulations because the given curing time and light
intensity, in this case 30 minutes and 405 mW, were not sufficient to solidify a large portion of the
sample.
4.3.8 Swelling
Swelling was measured for each sample by the gravimetric method [137, 138]. Each sample was
weighted then immersed in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) for 24 hours at room temperature, then,
samples were taken out and patted with tissue paper to remove the excess of solvent. The
𝑊2−𝑊1
𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑆𝑤𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 = ( ) ∗ 100 % (4)
𝑊1
Where W2 is the weight of the specimens after immersion in the solvent, and W1 is the weight of
The rationale for conducting a swelling test in PBS is the need to determine the behavior of the
cured resins in a solution that has a similarity to the biological environment in our bodies. Swelling
will also determine the appropriate future applications for the cured material in terms of their
hydrophilicity.
67
4.3.9 Statistical Analysis:
All relevant quantitative data was organized as mean ± standard deviation. One-way ANOVA,
Fisher test was performed with a 0.05 significance level to determine whether the difference in the
Three resin formulations were developed using PEGDA as a base polymer, DI-TAMPTA as a
crosslinking agent, and 5 (W/W%) of photoinitiator as seen previously in Table 4.3.1 The
successful polymerization of PD-1, PD-2, and PD-3 resins was confirmed by post printing FTIR
analysis. From Figure 4.4.1, we can see that the signal corresponding to C=C at 1638 cm-1 has
C=C
Absorbance
(B) Uncured
(A) Cured
-1
Wavenumber (cm )
Figure 4.4.1. FTIR spectra of (A) uncured PD-2 sample and (B) cured PD-2 sample after 30
minutes of curing.
68
The decrease in the signal corresponding to C=C bonding at 1638 cm-1 for the cured sample
compared to the uncured resin as seen in Figure 4.4.1 is a clear indication of curing. The C=C are
consumed in order for the molecular chains to polymerize and form a network. After that, the FTIR
results were used to calculate the degree of curing after setting an internal standard peak at 1735
cm-1 and calculating the percent decrease of C=C bonds using equations 1 and 2. Concurrently,
the percent yield and percentage swelling were calculated using equations 3 and 4 respectively.
The effect of increasing the molar ratios of PEGDA and DI-TAMPTA (crosslinker) in the resin
formulations was analyzed. Figure 4.4.2 showed the effect of changing the PEGDA to DI-
TAMPTA ratio from 1:1 in PD-1 to 1:2 and 2:1 in PD-2 and PD-3 respectively. All three samples
had a relatively high percent yield with PD-3 having the highest percent yield of 99.73 % ± 0.36
Comparing PD-1 and PD-3 gives an insight on effect of PEDGA on the resin properties. From
Figure 4.4.2, we can see that the percent yield has increased from 99.58 % ± 0.11 in PD-1 to 99.73
% ± 0.36 in PD-3 and the degree of curing increased from 28.96% ± 2.29 in PD-1 to 41.43% ±
2.83 in PD-3 as a result of increasing the molar ratio of PEGDA while keeping a constant ratio of
DI-TAMPTA. There was no significant difference in the percent yield between the two resins
however, the degree of curing for PD-3 was significantly higher than PD-1.
When adding a polymer to a formulation, the new added monomers may build uniformly on the
existing chains to increase their size which will increase the percent yield or otherwise, the new
monomers will polymerize separately and create smaller molecular chains which will likely
decrease the percentage yield. In this case, the molar ratio of PEGDA was doubled and the new
added monomers built uniformly on the existing molecular chains caused an increase in the percent
yield. On the hand, the increase in PEGDA has increased the C=C bonds that can open and
69
polymerize with DI-TAMPTA. The conversion of C=C to single bonds increased the
On the other hand, Figure 4.4.3 shows the decrease in the percentage swelling from 11.88 % ±
4.48 in PD-1 to 10.69 % ± 0.99 in PD-3. Percentage swelling can be affected by two factors, the
first factor is the properties of the added material and the second factor is the overall strength of
the molecular network. As we have seen in the previous results, doubling the amount of PEGDA
has increased polymerization and therefore, the overall molecular strength has increased which
Comparing PD-1 and PD-2 gives an insight on effect of DI-TAMPTA on the resin properties. In
PD-2 the molar ratio of DI-TAMPTA was doubled in the formulation while keeping the molar
ratio of PEGDA at 1. From Figure 4.4.2, we can see that the percent yield has decreased from
99.58 % ± 0.11 in PD-1 to 95.062 % ± 0.65. In addition, the degree of curing increased significantly
from 28.96% ± 2.29 in PD-1 to 43.04% ± 2.76 in PD-2 as a result of doubling the molar ratio of
DI-TAMPTA.
Increasing the amount of DI-TAMPTA in the formulation has decreased the percent yield, this
might be a result of forming smaller molecular chains between PEGDA and DI-TAMPTA in the
formulation. The added DI-TAMPTA molecules didn’t build up to create molecular chains that
are as big as the chains in PD-1 which caused the decrease in the percent yield. However, the
increase of DI-TAMPTA has increased the reaction sites where PEGDA can react causing the
70
100
80
60
%
40
20
0
PD-1 (1:1) PD-2 (2:1) PD-3 (1:2)
Figure 4.4.2. Characterization of Poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate based resin (PEGDA: DI-
TAMPTA).
Regarding swelling, the percentage swelling has significantly decreased from 11.88 % ± 4.48 in
PD-1 to 5.65 % ± 2.75 in PD-2 as a result of doubling the molar ratio of the crosslinker (DI-
TAMPTA) with respect to PEGDA (Figure 4.4.3). The decrease in percentage swelling for PD-2
compared to PD-1 is a result of increasing DI-TAMPTA in the resin formulation. From previous
results, we can see that the polymerization has increased in PD-2 which caused the increase in the
overall molecular structure in the network and therefore decreasing the percentage swelling.
71
50
45
40
Percentage Swelling
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
PD-1 (1:1) PD-2 (2:1) PD-3 (1:2)
Even though the percent yield and degree of curing for PD-2 and PD-3 are quite similar, the result
of doubling the molar ratios of DI-TAMPTA and PEGDA in PD-2 and PD-3 respectively had a
different effect on the swelling properties of their respective resins (Figure 4.4.3). The percentage
swelling for PD-2 is significantly less than PD-3 due to a higher overall strength of the molecular
network in PD-2, Also, id PD-3, the PEGDA molar ratio was doubled and PEGDA is known to
Three resin combinations were developed using GDGDA as a base polymer, DI-TAMPTA as a
crosslinking agent, and 5 (W/W%) of photoinitiator as seen previously in table 4.3.2. The
successful polymerization of GD-1, GD-2, and GD-3 resins was confirmed by postprinting FTIR
72
analysis. The decrease in the C=C peak intensity was a clear indication of curing. The effect of
increasing the molar ratios of GDGDA and DI-TAMPTA in the resin formulations was analyzed.
Figure 4.4.4 showed the effect of increasing the GDGDA to DI-TAMPTA ratio from 1:1 in GD-
1 to 1:2 and 2:1 in GD-2 and GD-3 respectively. From figure 4.4.4 below, it can be seen that all
three samples had relatively low percent yield, with GD-1 having the highest percent yield at 54.99
% ± 1.073, and GD-3 having the lowest percent yield at 40.69 % ± 0.60. Comparing GD-1 and
GD-3 gives an insight on the effect of increasing the molar ratio of GDGDA from 1 in GD-1 to 2
in GD-3. From figure 4.4.4, we can see that the percent yield has significantly decrease from 54.99
% ± 1.073 (GD-1) to 40.69 % ± 0.60 (GD-3) and the degree of curing has significantly increased
from 11.52 % ± 0.23 (GD-1) to 23.82 % ± 0.11 (GD-3) as a result of doubling the molar ratio of
GDGDA.
The significant decrease in the percent yield in GD-3 showed that some of the added GDGDA
molecules helped create smaller molecular chains and didn’t build uniformly on the existing chains
to increase their size. However, adding more GDGDA molecules allowed more polymerization to
occur with unreacted acrylates in DI-TAMPTA and more double bonds were converted to single
Figure 4.4.5 analyzed the percentage swelling for the reins. From Figure 4.4.5 below, we can see
that the percentage swelling has decreased from -2.04 % ± 6.35 in GD-1 to -9.99 % ± 8.06 in GD-
3 as a result of increasing GDGDA in the resin mixture (2:1 molar ratio). This can be explained
by the dissolving of glycerol in PBS over 24 hours of immersion in PBS solution. The low percent
yield indicated that the molecular chains were not big in size to begin with, therefore, the PBS
solution might help break the glycerol chains into small enough chains to be washed in the solution
73
hence the decrease in weigh after 24 hours. Increasing the GDGDA molar ratio in GD-3 has
increased the mass loss as more glycerol chains were broken up and dissolved in the solution.
100
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80
70
60
50
%
40
30
20
10
0
GD-1 (1:1) GD-2 (2:1) GD-3 (1:2)
Percent Yield Degree of Curing
Figure 4.4.4. Characterization of glycerol 1,3-diglycerolate diacrylate based resin (GDGDA: DI-
TAMPTA).
On the other hand, comparing GD-1 and GD-2 gives an insight on the effect of increasing the
molar ratio of DI-TAMPTA from 1 in GD-1 to 2 in GD-2. From figure 4.4.4, we can see that the
percent yield has decreased from 54.99 % ± 1.073 in GD-1 to 50.04 % ± 0.29 in GD-2. However,
the decrease was statistically insignificant. On the other hand, the degree of curing has increased
from 11.52 % ± 0.23 (GD-1) to 24.02 % ± 0.11 (GD-2) as seen in figure 4.4.4. The small decrease
in the percent yield as more DI-TAMPTA was added can be explained by hypothesizing that DI-
TAMPTA was added uniformly to the existing molecular chains and therefore percent yield wasn’t
greatly affected. However, adding more crosslinking agent (DI-TAMPTA) helped increase the
reaction sites by increasing the number of acrylates in the formulation, this helped increase the
74
polymerization between GDGDA and DI-TAMPTA as GDGDA molecules has a higher chance to
find a place where it can polymerize and break down double bonds.
The effect of increasing the molar ratio of DI-TAMPTA on the swelling properties was analyzed.
Figure 4.4.5 showed an increase in the percentage swelling from -2.04 % ± 6.35 in GD-1 to 1.67
% ± 1.63 in GD-2 as a result of increasing DI-TAMPTA in the resin mixture (1:2 molar ratio). The
lack of mass loss and increase in swelling as a result of adding DI-TAMPTA can be explained by
the enhancement of the overall strength of the molecular structure of the resin. After adding a large
number of crosslinking agent molecules, the molecular chains can no longer be broken down by
25
20
15
Percentage Swelling
10
-5
-10
-15
-20
-25
GD-1 (1:1) GD-2 (2:1) GD-3 (1:2)
Figure 4.4.5. Characterization of swelling behavior for GD1- GD-3 (GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA).
75
Comparing GD-2 and GD-3, we can see that there is no significant difference between the percent
yield and degree of curing for the two resins (Figure 4.4.4). However, there is a significant
difference in the percentage swelling. While the addition of GDGDA accounted for the loss of
mass in GD-3, the addition of DI-TAMPTA helped strengthen the overall molecular structure of
the resin so it won’t be compromised by the solution. This needs to be taken into account when
studying the resin formulations because even though the addition of GDGDA and DI-TAMPTA
has a similar effect on the percent yield and degree of curing, the loss of mass can be avoided while
achieving the same percent yield and DC if DI-TAMPTA was added instead of GDGDA (GD-2).
Three resin formulations were developed using PEGDA and GDGDA copolymer at varying molar
ratios and 5 (W/W%) of photoinitiator as seen previously in table 4.3.3. Unlike the previous
formulations, these three resins have lacked the presence of DI-TAMPTA as a crosslinking agent
that will help carry out chain reactions to create crosslinked networks. Although, the successful
polymerization of PG-1, PG-2, and PG-3 resins was confirmed by postprinting FTIR analysis as
The effect of varying the molar ratios of the PEGDA and GDGDA in the copolymer blend was
analyzed. Figure 4.4.6 showed the effect of changing the PEGDA to GDGDA ratio from 1:1 in
PG-1 to 1:2 and 2:1 in PG-2 and PG-3 respectively. From figure 4.4.6, we can see that all three
samples recorded a relatively high percent yield with the highest value at 91.61% ± 1.4 for PG-2
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Comparing PG-1 (1:1 molar ratio of PEGDA: GDGDA) and PG-3 (2:1 molar ratio) gives an
insight on the effect of doubling the molar ratio of PEGDA on the resin’s properties. From figure
4.4.6, we can see that the percent yield has significantly decreased from 86.76 % ± 0.76 in PG-1
to 81.18 % ± 1.67 in PG-3. Also, the degree of curing has significantly increased from 27.92 % ±
2.83 in PG-1 to 43.77 % ± 5.80 in PG-3 as a result of increasing the molar ratios of PEGDA.
Doubling the amount of PEGDA in PG-3 resulted in the creation of smaller molecular chains in
the resins which caused the overall percent yield to decrease. However, decreasing the percent
yield doesn’t necessarily cause a decrease in the degree of curing. The added PEGDA molecules
provided a larger number of acrylates (reaction sites) where the carbon double bonds can be broken
and converted to single bonds which will enhance the polymerization and creation of
entanglements in the resulting resin and therefore will increase the degree of curing of the resin.
Comparing swelling results for PG-1 and PG-3 will determine the effect on increasing the PEGDA
molar ratio (2:1) on the swelling properties of the resins. From Figure 4.4.7, we can see that the
percentage swelling has increased from 24.17 % ± 0.51 to 24.35 % ± 1.45 in PG-3 as a result of
increasing the molar ratio of PEGDA in PG-3. The increase in swelling was insignificant. Even
though there was an increase in the degree of curing indicating higher polymerization in the
network structure, the hydrophilicity of PEGDA must have played a role in keeping the percentage
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100
90
80
70
60
%
50
40
30
20
10
0
PG-1 (1:1) PG-2 (2:1) PG-3 (1:2)
Percent Yield Degree of Curing
Finally, comparing PG-1 (1:1 molar ratio of PEGDA: GDGDA) and PG-2 (1:2 molar ratio) gives
an insight on the effect of doubling the molar ratio of GDGDA on the resin’s properties. From
figure 4.4.6, we can see that the percent yield has significantly increased from 86.76 % ± 0.76 in
PG-1 to 91.61% ± 1.4 in PG-2. In addition, the degree of curing has increased from 27.92 % ±
2.83 in PG-1 to 28.08 % ± 6.97 in PG-2 as a result of increasing the molar ratio of GDGDA in the
resin formulation, although, the difference in the degree of curing was statistically insignificant.
The increase in the percent yield is an indication that most of the added GDGDA molecules have
built up on the existing chains creating larger molecular chains rather than creating smaller chains,
the larger the polymer chains, the higher the percent yield will be. On the other hand, the degree
of curing didn’t change significantly which is an indication that the added GDGDA molecules
were added uniformly across the polymer chains which might not affect the final number of
78
acrylates in the resin formulation after doubling the molar ratio of GDGDA in PG-2 which relates
50
45
40
Percentage Swelling
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
PG-1 (1:1) PG-2 (2:1) PG-3 (1:2)
From Figure 4.4.7, we can see that the percentage swelling has decreased from 24.17 % ± 0.51 to
17.35 ± 0.93 in PG-2 as a result of doubling the molar ratio of the GDGDA with respect to PEGDA.
The percentage swelling in PG-2 has decreased significantly because the addition of GDGDA may
have increased the overlap of chains in molecular structure which will increase its strength and
therefore decrease the percentage swelling. In addition, as seen in previous results, the addition of
GDGDA may result in breakage of the GDGDA molecules which can compromise the overall
79
The reason behind the overall low degree of curing for PG-1 and PG-2 compared to the previous
formulations i.e. PD-2 and PD-3, is the absence of the crosslinking agent (DI-TAMPTA) which
provides a higher number of acrylates (reaction sites) and serves as a multifunctional agent with a
specific function of creating bridges among the linear polymer chains to help obtain a crosslinked
network rather than just forming entanglements between the different molecular structures [139].
A total of four resin formulations were developed using PEGDA and GDGDA as a base copolymer
as well as DI-TAMPTA as a crosslinking agent. In addition, PG-1, PD-1 and GD-1 resins were
used as control groups for this study to determine the effect of crosslinking agent as well as
PEGDA and GDGDA on the final resin formulations. The successful polymerization of the control
groups, PGD-1, PGD-2, PGD-3, and PGD-4 resins was confirmed by postprinting FTIR analysis.
Similar to previous results, the decrease in the intensity of the methacrylate peak at 1638 cm-1 is a
sign of curing as the C=C bond breaks down to initialize polymerization and create crosslinks.
The effect of manipulating the stoichiometric ratio of each component of the resin was analyzed.
Figure 4.4.8 showed the effect of introducing a crosslinking agent (DI-TAMPTA) to the
copolymer resin formulation as well as the effect of increasing the molar ratio of DI-TAMPTA to
10 while keeping all other molar ratios at 1. Comparing PG-1 and PGD-1 gives an insight in the
effect of adding DI-TAMPTA to the copolymer. From figure 4.4.8, it can be seen that the percent
yield has increased from 86.76 % ± 0.717 to 98.36 % ± 1.46 as a result of adding the crosslinking
agent at a 1:1:1 ratio with the copolymer in PGD-1. Additionally, from figure 4.4.8, we can see
that the degree of curing has increased from 27.92 % ± 2.83 in PG-1 to 59.49 % ± 4.72 after adding
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The increase in the percent yield in PGD-1 indicated the formation of a large molecular chains that
contributed to create a uniform solid sample with nearly zero unsolidified liquid. The added DI-
TAMPTA in this case built on the existing chains to make them larger. Also, adding Di-TAMPTA
has increase the opening of C=C which will increase polymerization and finally increase the degree
of curing.
Additionally, the swelling behavior of PD-1 (1:1:0 molar ratio of PEGDA: GDGDA: DI-
TAMPTA) compared to PGD-1 (1:1:1) molar ratio was analyzed. Figure 4.4.9 shows that the
percentage swelling has significantly decreased from 24.17 % ± 0.51 in PD-1 to 5.43 % ± 1.05 in
PGD-1. The significant decrease in swelling can be explained by the addition of DI-TAMPTA to
the resin formulation which help strengthen the molecular structure of the resin and therefore its
100
80
60
%
40
20
Figure 4.4.8. Characterization of PG-1, PGD-1 and PGD-3 resin formulations (PEGDA:
GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA).
81
Moreover, the percent yield and degree of curing of PGD-1 (1:1:1 molar ratio) and PGD-3 (1: 1:
10 molar ratio) was analyzed to give an insight on the effect of dramatically increasing the molar
ratio of DI-TAMPTA in the resin formulation. Figure 4.4.8 shows that the percent yield has
significantly decreased form 98.26 % ± 1.46 in PGD-1 to 57.52 % ± 1.34 in PGD-3. In addition,
the degree of curing has significantly decreased from 59.49 % ± 1.05 in PGD-1 to 31.24 % ± 2.71
in PGD-3. The significant decrease in the percent yield in PGD-2 indicated that some of the added
DI-TAMPTA molecules have polymerized and created smaller chains rather adding to the existing
chains and creating large polymers. Similarly, the addition of a large number of DI-TAMPTA
molecules due to the increase of the unreacted acrylates which stayed unreacted after curing
because even though the number of DI-TAMPTA molecules was increased, the molar ratios of
Comparing the swelling behavior for PGD-1 and PGD-3 gives an insight on the effect of
dramatically increasing the amount of DI-TAMPTA on the swelling behavior. Figure 4.4.9 shows
that the percentage swelling has decreased from 5.43 % ± 1.05 in PGD-1 to 2.73 % ± 2.88 in PGD-
3. The decrease in the percentage swelling might be due to the strength of the resin due to the
addition of a large number of crosslinking agent. Also, the polymers created in PGD-3 are
nonlinear due to the nature of DI-TAMPTA which may have increased the strength of the network
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48
38
Percentage Swelling
28
18
-2
PG-1 (1:1:0) PGD-1 (1:1:1) PGD-3 (1:1:10)
Figure 4.4.9. Characterization of swelling behavior for PGD1-PGD-4 (PEGDA: GDGDA: DI-
TAMPTA).
After that, GD-1, PGD-1, and PGD-2 were compared to investigate the effect of changing the
molar ratio from 0:1:1 to 1:1:1 and 10:1:1 (PEGDA: GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA). Figure 4.4.10
shows that the percent yield has increased significantly in GD-1 (0:1:1 molar ratio) from 54.99 %
± 1.073 to 86.76 % ± 0.717 in PGD-1 (1:1:1) as a result of adding PEGDA to the resin formulation.
Additionally, the degree of curing has significantly increased from 11.52 % ± 0.23 in GD-1 to
59.49 % ± 4.72 in PGD-1. The addition of PEGDA in PGD-1 has helped create larger molecules
chains which will help create a uniform solid sample and eliminate the amount of uncured resin.
Similarly, adding PEGDA will increase the number of reaction sites and increase the breakage of
double bonds and polymerization which will increase the degree of curing.
83
Also, the swelling behavior of GD-1 and PGD-1 was analyzed to determine the effect of adding
PEGDA on the percentage swelling of the resins. Figure 4.4.11 shows that the percentage swelling
has significantly increased from -2.04 % ± 6.35 in GD-1 to 5.43 % ± 1.05 in PGD-1 as a result of
adding PEGDA. From previous results, we can see that the polymerization has increased in PGD-
1 compared to GD-1 which might help create a stronger molecular network and therefore prevent
the decrease in mass in the solution. Also, PEGDA’s hydrophilicity has contributed to improving
120
100
80
%
60
40
20
Figure 4.4.10. Characterization of GD-1, PGD-1 and PGD-3 resin formulations (PEGDA:
GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA).
Similarly, PGD-1 and PGD-2 were compared to help investigate the effect of dramatically
increasing the molar ratio of PEGDA from 1 in PGD-1 to 10 in PGD-2. The percent yield has
significantly decreased from 98.36 % ± 1.46 in PGD-1 (1:1:1) to 84.64 % ± 2.28 in PGD-2
84
(10:1:1). Also, the degree of curing has significantly decreased from 59.49 % ± 4.72 in PGD-1 to
41.35 % ± 6.65 in PGD-2. The decrease in the percent yield in as a result of dramatically increasing
the molar ratio of PEGDA is an indication that the added PEGDA didn’t polymerize on the existing
chains to create larger chains but polymerized and created smaller polymer chains instead.
Additionally, similar to previous results, adding a large number of PEGDA monomers decreased
the degree of curing because of the large number of unreacted acrylates that stayed unreacted
because there isn’t enough GDGDA and DI-TAMPTA to polymerize with PEGDA.
20
Percentage Swelling
15
10
-5
-10
GD-1 (0:1:1) PGD-1 (1:1:1) PGD-2 (10:1:1)
Figure 4.4.11. Swelling behavior of GD-1, PGD-1, and PGD-2 resin formulations (PEGDA:
GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA).
When analyzing swelling behavior, Figure 4.4.11, shows the effect of increasing the molar ratio
of PEGDA from 1 in PGD-1 to 10 in PGD-2. The percentage swelling has significantly increased
from 5.43 % ± 1.05 in PGD-1 to 16.58 % ± 1.15 in PGD-2. The significant increase in the
percentage swelling is due to the addition of hydrophilic PEGDA in the resin formulation. Also,
85
as the degree of curing and polymerization decreased in PGD-2, the molecular structure can be
Finally, PD-1, PGD-1 and PGD-4 were analyzed to determine the effect of adding GDGDA on the
resin properties. Comparing PD-1 (1:0:1 molar ratio of PEGDA:GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA) to PGD-
1 (1:1:1 molar ratio), we find that the percent yield decreased from 99.58 % ± 0.11 in PD-1 to
98.36 % ± 1.46 in PGD-1 which is a statistically insignificant decrease (Figure 4.4.12). On the
other hand, the degree of curing has significantly increased from 28.96% ± 2.29 in PD-1 to 59.49
100
80
60
%
40
20
0
PD-1 (1:0:1) PGD-1 (1:1:1) PGD-4 (1:10:1)
Percent Yield Degree of Curing
Figure 4.4.12. Characterization of PD-1, PGD-1 and PGD-4 resin formulations (PEGDA:
GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA).
When analyzing the swelling behavior, Figure 4.4.13 gives an insight on the effect of adding
GDGDA to the resin formulation in PGD-1 after lacking any GDGDA molecules in PD-1. From
figure 4.4.13, we can see that the percentage swelling has decreased significantly from 11.88 % ±
4.48 in PD-1 to 5.43 % ± 1.05 in PGD-1. This significant decrease may be due to the addition of
86
GDGDA molecules which can increased the polymerization in the formulation and therefore
increased the resin’s resistance to swelling because the overall strength of the molecular network
was enhanced.
Lastly, PGD-1 and PGD-4 were compared to investigate the effect of dramatically increasing the
molar ratio of GDGDA from one in PGD-1 to ten in PGD-4. Figure 4.4.12 shows that the percent
yield has decreased from 98.26 % ± 1.46 in PGD-1 to 74.52 % ± 0.41 in PGD-4. And the degree
of curing has significantly decreased from 59.49 % ± 1.05 in PGD-1 to 29.29 % ± 3.69 in PGD-4.
The significant decrease in both the percent yield and degree of curing in PGD-4 compared to
PGD-1 is a result of dramatically increasing the GDGDA molar ratio to 10. The added GDGDA
molecules in this case has helped create smaller chains and contributed to the existence of many
unreacted acrylates which justifies the decrease in percent yield and degree of curing respectively.
30
Percentage Swelling
25
20
15
10
0
PD-1 (1:0:1) PGD-1 (1:1:1) PGD-4 (1:10:1)
Figure 4.4.13. Swelling behavior of GD-1, PGD-1, and PGD-2 resin formulations (PEGDA:
GDGDA: DI-TAMPTA).
87
In addition, the percentage swelling has increased from 5.43 % ± 1.05 in PGD-1 to 15.40 % ±
11.66 in PGD-4 (Figure 4.4.13). The increase in the percentage swelling is statistically
insignificant and the unusually large standard deviation in the percentage swelling for PGD-4 is
due to two factor; the first factor is the addition of large amount of GDGDA caused many smaller
glycerol chains to break into smaller chains that can wash away in solution. The second factor is
the hydrophilicity of GDGDA which may have contributed to the increase in swelling in some
cases.
4.4 Conclusion
achieved. Four sets of biomedically relevant resins were developed with various stochiometric
ratios and material compositions. The addition of PEGDA has increased the percent yield and
degree of curing in most formulations as well as enhanced the swelling properties of the final
object. In addition, introducing DI-TAMPTA crosslinker into the copolymer formulation has
significantly increased the degree of curing for the cured sample and decreased swelling, similar
results from the literature was observed [140] . On the other hand, glycerol based resins showed
the lowest DC and were degraded when immersed in PBS for 24 hours which is an indication
GDGDA molecules break down in PBS solution which matches what is in the literature [139-141].
Moreover, PEGDA-GDGDA copolymer has the ability to polymerize with the lack of the
crosslinking agent and will result in a relatively high percentage swelling, however, its DC is
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CHAPTER 5
5.1 Conclusion
The primary conclusion that was drawn from these preliminary results is that the final products
and digital light processing by decreasing the layer height as well as by post curing the samples.
feasible and will serve the constant demand for novel, non-fossil fuel based raw materials. These
results are consistent with results presented in literature as a part of the continuous effort to
improve 3D printing and use it as a primary manufacturing method to produce final parts and
While stereolithography has been around for a long time, digital light processing is a newly
emerged photolithography technique that uses a photomask to print each layer from a binary image
using a digital micromirror device. After comparing the two techniques, decreasing the layer height
has significantly increase the degree of curing and thermal stability of samples for
stereolithography and digital light processing alike. Additionally, post curing the samples
enhanced their degree of curing and thermal properties with no significant difference between the
two techniques. After identifying printing and post processing parameters that will help us
understand and improve the final product in photolithography, it was essential to identify major
problems that face this type of 3D printing and attempt to provide a solution.
The limitation in the availability and high cost of the photocurable resins are a massive
89
polymer are essential components for photocurable resins, in this study, the molar ratios of
polyethylene glycol and glycerol-based resin were altered to achieve a degree of curing as high as
59.49 % ± 4.72 and a percent yield as high as 98.36 % ± 1.46. Additionally, the effect of the
crosslinking agent on the photoresins was shown to increase the degree of curing and percent yield
Future work involving the novel photocurable resin is still important to demonstrate the ability
for this resin to compete with commercially produced photoresins. Firstly, the biodegradability
and biocompatibility of the resin need to be tested to determine the range of applications this resin
can be used for. Secondly, the viscosity of the resins needs to be optimized to allow it to be
processed through stereolithography and digital light processing 3D printing techniques. Even
though the resins demonstrated the ability to cure under UV light in a curing chamber to form a
uniform homogeneous sample, it is important to ensure the feasibility for these resins to be printed
using actual stereolithography and digital light processing 3D printers. To do that, the viscosity of
the resins may have to be altered by adding other liquid polymers. Lastly, the printing parameters
and post curing process need to be optimized for the resin to yield results comparable to
commercial resins. It is important to study the effect of process parameters on the mechanical,
thermal, and structural properties of the final 3D printed object in order to optimize the time and
energy consumption when printing using the new resin, and to help yield optimal resolution and
mechanical strength compared to traditionally manufactured products. If successful, this resin will
help satisfy the need for new 3D printing materials that not only yield comparable results to
commercial resins, but also are biodegradable and biocompatible which would be a major
innovative solution in areas in the medical field such as drug delivery and dentistry.
90
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91
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101
APPENDIX
102
APPENDIX
103
Figure 3.1: Interval Plot for DC (SLA) and DC_1 (DLP)
One-way ANOVA: No Post Processing SLA, 10 MIN SLA, 20 MIN SLA, 30 MIN SLA
Table 3.5. Method
Null hypothesis All means are equal
Alternative Not all means are
hypothesis equal
Significance level α = 0.05
Equal variances were assumed for the analysis.
104
Table 3.7. Analysis of Variance
Adj F- P-
Source DF Adj SS MS Value Value
Factor 3 1043.50 347.832 117.84 0.000
Error 8 23.61 2.952
Total 11 1067.11
105
Figure 3.3: Interval Plot for 0, 10, 20, and 30 Minutes of Post Curing SLA Samples
Figure 3.4: Individual Value Plot for 0, 10, 20, and 30 Minutes of Post Curing SLA Samples
106
Figure 3.5. Boxplot for 0, 10, 20, and 30 Minutes of Post Curing SLA Samples
One-way ANOVA: 0 MIN DLP, 10 MIN DLP, 20 MIN DLP, 30 MIN DLP
Table 3.11 Method
Null hypothesis All means are equal
Alternative Not all means are
hypothesis equal
Significance level α = 0.05
Equal variances were assumed for the analysis.
107
Fisher Pairwise Comparisons
Table 3.14. Grouping Information Using the Fisher LSD Method and 95% Confidence
Factor N Mean Grouping
20 MIN 3 77.63 A
DLP
30 MIN 3 77.433 A
DLP
10 MIN 3 75.10 A
DLP
0 MIN 3 43.30 B
DLP
Means that do not share a letter are significantly different.
Figure 3.6: Interval Plot for 0, 10, 20, and 30 Minutes of Post Curing SLA Samples
108
Figure 3.7: Individual Value Plot for 0, 10, 20, and 30 Minutes of Post Curing DLP Samples
Figure 3.8. Boxplot for 0, 10, 20, and 30 Minutes of Post Curing DLP Samples
109
2.10E-01
1.60E-01
Absobrance
1.10E-01
6.00E-02
1.00E-02
1,000.0 1,100.0 1,200.0 1,300.0 1,400.0 1,500.0 1,600.0
-4.00E-02
Wavelength cm-1
Figure 3.9 FTIR results of uncured commercial resin.
Uncured
0.100 mm
LH
0.050 mm
LH
0.025 mm
LH
Figure 3.10 FTIR spectra of 0.100, 0.050, and 0.025 mm printed specimens.
110
Before swelling After swelling
Table 3.1: Degree of curing for DLP and SLA at different layer height.
Table 3.2: Degree of curing for DLP and SLA at different post processing times.
111
110
100 dlp 01
90 dlp 025
80 dlp30
70
Weight (%)
60
50
40
30
20
10
300 350 400 450 500 550
Temperature
Figure 3.13: TGA curves for DLP 0.100 mm layer height versus 0.025 mm layer height and 30-minute post cured sample
112
1:1 3 86.761 0.717 (84.893,
88.629)
1:2 3 91.612 1.397 (89.744,
93.480)
2:1 3 81.180 1.668 (79.312,
83.049)
Pooled StDev = 1.32252
PG-1 PD-1
GD-1 PGD-1
Figure 4.1. Cured PG-1, PD-1, GD-1, and PGD-1 samples.
113