Recent Progress on the 3D Printing of Dynamically Cross‐Linked Polymers

Abstract

The utilization of dynamic cross‐linking represents a highly promising approach in addressing the escalating issues of plastic pollution and fossil resource consumption. Despite being extensively investigated over the past decade, various dynamically cross‐linked polymers (DCPs) predominantly remain confined to the realm of academic research. To serve as a valuable material for practical application, advanced processing is always essential for all kinds of materials. 3D printing (3DP) enables the creation of intricate shapes layer‐by‐layer without relying on molds, thus the integration of 3DP techniques with DCPs holds significant potential to enhance and expand the practical applicability of DCPs. Here, an overview of the fundamental principles underlying DCPs compatible 3DP techniques are provided, namely photocuring 3DP, extrusion‐based 3DP, and laser sintering‐based 3DP. Additionally, a comprehensive summary of representative research works that specifically focus on the application of DCPs in each respective 3DP technique is presented. The performance and dynamic mechanism involved in the corresponding printing process are thoroughly discussed and comprehensively reviewed. Finally, the existing challenges and issues pertaining to further enhancing 3D printability, performance, efficiency, etc., are extensively deliberated upon, while proposing potential directions to address these concerns.

Digital Light 3D Printing of Double Thermoplastics with Customizable Mechanical Properties and Versatile Reprocessability

“…[8][9][10] Although the produced thermosets exhibit excellent mechanical properties and chemical resistance, these stable polymer networks also present limitations in terms of adaptivity and reprocessability. [11][12][13][14] As a result, the disposal of these 3D-printed thermosets at the end of their service life, may further aggravate the plastic pollution problem that the world is already facing. In contrast, thermoplastics -which consist of non-crosslinked linear polymers -can be reprocessed by melting or dissolving in monomers or solvents, [15][16][17][18] making them ideal candidates for a sustainable materials economy.…”

Reducing part deformation of isotactic polypropylene specimens fabricated with powder bed fusion technique through controlling crystallization behaviors

“…Besides, polymer PBF technique prefers to polymer materials with a wide sintering window (defined as the region between the onset melting temperature and the onset crystallization temperature), which permits enough time for particles in melt state to facilitate good coalescence of powders. Altogether, polymer PBF urgently needs the range of available powder materials to be expanded by conducting extensive research on novel materials 11,17 …”