Graphene Nanocomposite for 3D Printed Eyewear

Abstract

This work examines the innovative utilization of digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing to create a high-strength graphene nanocomposite eyeglass frame. The incorporation of graphene aims to improve the strength of 3D printed structures. The research methodology involves the formulation of graphene-based resins with various graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) concentrations ranging from 0.025 wt.% to 0.2 wt.%. Key processing parameters like printing layer thickness and curing time were varied to identify the optimal parameters of the printing process. Moreover, various post-print baking temperatures and durations were examined for the graphene/polymer composites. Mechanical testing and comparative assessments are conducted to evaluate the composite’s mechanical properties like ultimate tensile strength, Young’s modulus, and elongation at break. The findings indicated that the incorporation of just 0.05 wt.% graphene content to the polymer matrix, which is a polyamide-like resin, led to a notable enhancement in both the ultimate tensile strength and modulus of the composite by 45.1% and 43.5%, respectively. The findings illustrate the viability and potential advantages of utilizing graphene within 3D printed parts, showcasing promising avenues to create lightweight, robust, and custom-designed structural applications.

Date of Award	24 Apr 2024
Original language	American English
Supervisor	Haider Butt (Supervisor)