Short answer

When designing with micro-scale 3D printed polymers, account for significant changes in mechanical properties based on operational speed and temperature; utilize predictive models for performance extrapolation.

Field: Modelling
Source: Materials & Design (2020)
Method: Experimental investigation and predictive modelling
Evidence: Strong effect

The mechanical performance of micro-scale 3D printed polymer structures is highly sensitive to both the speed at which they are deformed and the ambient temperature. This modelling research insight is drawn from a 2020 study published in Materials & Design. Using Experimental investigation and predictive modelling, researchers explored how this design variable affects real-world outcomes. The key design takeaway: When designing with micro-scale 3D printed polymers, account for significant changes in mechanical properties based on operational speed and temperature; utilize predictive models for performance extrapolation.

Study

ModellingHigh ImpactStrong effect

Strain rate and temperature significantly alter the mechanical properties of micro-scale 3D printed polymers.

The mechanical performance of micro-scale 3D printed polymer structures is highly sensitive to both the speed at which they are deformed and the ambient temperature.

Materials & Design · 2020

Key Findings

01Yield strength increased fourfold with strain rate from 68 MPa to 230 MPa as strain rate increased from 7e−4 s−1 to 600 s−1.
02Elastic modulus was constant at 3.2 GPa for strain rates of 0.7 s−1 and above, but showed an increase with strain rate in the quasistatic regime.
03Elevated temperatures (80°C) significantly reduced yield strength and elastic modulus, with a less severe reduction observed at higher strain rates.

Application

Design takeaway

How to apply

When designing micro-actuators, sensors, or structural components that will experience dynamic loading or varying thermal environments, use this data to inform material choices and performance predictions.

Project actions

01When selecting materials for your design project, research how their properties change with speed and temperature.
02Consider using simulation tools that can account for these dynamic effects if your design will be subjected to rapid forces or temperature fluctuations.

Method & Evidence

AimTo investigate the influence of varying strain rates and temperatures on the micromechanical properties (yield strength and elastic modulus) of 3D printed polymer structures fabricated via two-photon lithography.

MethodExperimental investigation and predictive modelling

ProcedureMicro-scale polymer structures were fabricated using two-photon lithography. These structures were then subjected to compression and tension tests at various strain rates (from 7e−4 s−1 to 600 s−1) and temperatures (including ambient and 80°C). A strain rate-temperature superposition model was developed to predict mechanical properties beyond the tested conditions.

ContextMicro-scale additive manufacturing of polymer structures for advanced material applications.

Variables

IV["Strain rate","Temperature"]

DV["Yield strength","Elastic modulus"]

CV["Material (IP-Dip photoresist)","Fabrication method (Two-photon lithography)","Geometry of the printed structures"]

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

+Comprehensive study across a wide range of strain rates.
+Inclusion of temperature effects.
+Development of a predictive model.

Limitations

The specific type of plastic and 3D printing method used in this study might not apply to all materials. The model for predicting behavior might not be perfect for extreme conditions.

Reliability & validity

The study's reliability is supported by testing across a broad range of strain rates and temperatures. Validity is enhanced by the development of a predictive model that aligns with experimental observations.

Think critically

How might the findings of this study influence the design of micro-robotics or medical implants that are intended for use within the human body, where both mechanical forces and temperature can vary?

Design Principles

"Material properties are not static and must be characterized under relevant operational conditions, especially for micro-scale and advanced manufacturing processes."

Understanding these dependencies is crucial for designing and predicting the behavior of micro-scale components, especially those intended for dynamic applications or environments with fluctuating temperatures. This knowledge allows for more accurate material selection and performance forecasting in advanced manufacturing.

What This Means for Your Design

Tiny 3D printed parts made of plastic can become much stronger and stiffer when pushed or pulled quickly, but they get weaker in heat. This research helps predict how they'll behave.

How to use in your project

1.Reference this study when discussing the material properties of components in your design project, particularly if they are micro-scale or expected to operate under dynamic conditions.
2.Use the findings to justify material choices or to explain potential performance limitations of your design.

Add to My Project

Quick Cite

Paragraph starter

The mechanical performance of micro-scale 3D printed polymer structures is significantly influenced by strain rate and temperature. Research indicates that yield strength can increase substantially with higher strain rates, while elevated temperatures lead to a reduction in both strength and stiffness. These factors must be carefully considered during the design process to ensure the reliability and functionality of components operating under dynamic or varying thermal conditions.

Source

Materials & Design

Effect of high strain rates and temperature on the micromechanical properties of 3D-printed polymer structures made by two-photon lithography

journal · 2020

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Questions About This Research

What does the research say about strain rate and temperature significantly alter the mechanical properties of micro-scale 3d printed polymers?: When designing with micro-scale 3D printed polymers, account for significant changes in mechanical properties based on operational speed and temperature; utilize predictive models for performance extrapolation. Evidence: Materials & Design (2020).
Why does "Strain rate and temperature significantly alter the mechanical properties of micro-scale 3D printed polymers." matter for design?: Understanding these dependencies is crucial for designing and predicting the behavior of micro-scale components, especially those intended for dynamic applications or environments with fluctuating temperatures. This knowledge allows for more accurate material selection and performance forecasting in advanced manufacturing.
How can designers apply this research?: When designing with micro-scale 3D printed polymers, account for significant changes in mechanical properties based on operational speed and temperature; utilize predictive models for performance extrapolation.
What were the main findings?: Yield strength increased fourfold with strain rate from 68 MPa to 230 MPa as strain rate increased from 7e−4 s−1 to 600 s−1.. Elastic modulus was constant at 3.2 GPa for strain rates of 0.7 s−1 and above, but showed an increase with strain rate in the quasistatic regime.. Elevated temperatures (80°C) significantly reduced yield strength and elastic modulus, with a less severe reduction observed at higher strain rates.
What research method was used?: Experimental investigation and predictive modelling.
How strong is the evidence?: Evidence strength is rated Strong effect, based on a 2020 journal from Materials & Design.
What should I do differently in my next project?: When designing micro-actuators, sensors, or structural components that will experience dynamic loading or varying thermal environments, use this data to inform material choices and performance predictions.
What are the limitations?: The study focused on a specific photoresist (IP-Dip) and TPL fabrication method; results may vary for other materials and printing techniques. Extrapolation beyond tested ranges should be done with caution.