I am trying the chemical treatment of 3D printed transparent PLA parts by chemical method (solvent dipping) using different solvents. However, a white layer is formed after the chemical treatment of the parts, which affects their transparency. How do we prevent the formation of that white layer?
Dear Atish,
Nice question, difficult to find the best explanations and answers, because more experimental details are needed (what about the grade/nature of PLA, chemical products/solvents (?), time/conditions of treatment, what about the removing of chemical products/solvents, and so on).
We must assume that the initial transparency of 3D printed parts is OK ! First, I would like to recommend following some information regarding the post-processing available on the internet, e.g., tips and tricks to maintain the transparency of PLA: see you the post processing/ solvent vapor bath : https://www.bcn3d.com/tips-and-tricks-for-easy-printing-with-transparent-pla/. It will be very helpful to know the experience of other users.
Based on my experience with the topic “PLA”, I assume that the diminishing in “transparency” can be linked to the crystallization of PLA (can be only at the surface or even inside the item, function of your experimental procedure). The partial solubilization of PLA (of low D isomer content), followed by the removal of solvent, can also lead to an increased degree of crystallization, and to higher opacity. On the other hand, I will not exclude that following the chemical attack the surfaces could be damaged/changed (investigation by microscopy is needed to observe the presence of some micropores and bubbles) and modified (NB: the solvent dipping treatment is more aggressive), leading to significant changes in the transmission/refraction of the light, with lost in transparency and glossiness...
Finally, I believe that the RG colleagues with expertise in 3D printing PLA will help you with more beneficial practical information!
Good luck in our R&D study and best regards,
Marius
Dear sir Marius Murariu
First of all, thank you for your valuable response.
Regarding your queries,
I am using clear PLA filament which is available in the market (https://robu.in/product/esun-1-75mm-3d-printing-pla-filament-1kg-transparent/?gclid=CjwKCAjw6eWnBhAKEiwADpnw9t6KjNjzMTzYSfSKenIN8j8ZtF1lyVYUOStcgXW-_T2cqlJK7gtDqhoCSS8QAvD_BwE)
The solvents used are DMF, DMSO, and DCM.
The initial transparency of the printed parts is good (as shown in the left image), According to you, the loss of transparency is due to the crystallization then how to prevent it.
- Badges
- Science topic