A scalable protocol for design and subsequent 3D‐printing of polymeric core‐shell‐particles is reported. The particle synthesis by emulsion polymerization in starved‐feed mode is used for tailoring particle architecture and composition. Control of size, mechanical properties, and chemical functionalities allow to achieve the specific requirement profile for subsequent extrusion‐based additive manufacturing. The core‐shell particles consist of hard polystyrene cores and a comparably soft polyalkylacrylate‐based shell. Size and monodispersity, as well as core‐to‐shell ratio, are determined by means of dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. Thermal and rheological properties are investigated by means of dynamic scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis as well as oscillation and capillary rheometry. During 3D‐printing, the monodisperse particles self‐assemble into an ordered close packed lattice structure, leading to visible reflection colors according to Bragg's law of diffraction. Distinct and angle‐dependent reflection colors are recorded via UV‐vis spectroscopy. As the structural color depends, inter alia, on the underlying particle sizes, resulting colors are easily tunable by adjusting the applied synthesis parameters. Under mechanical deformation, the color changes due to controlled lattice deformation, which enables mechanochromic sensing with the printed objects. They are also promising candidates for decorative ornaments, smart optical coatings, or advanced security devices.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.