The orientation of fibrous fillers, induced by shear forces during extrusion, has been demonstrated to significantly enhance mechanical properties, electrical/thermal conductivity, microwave attenuation etc., albeit primarily in a two-dimensional (2D) x-y plane. In this study, we present a novel approach for achieving fiber alignment in a three-dimensional (3D) context, with an emphasis on the Z-direction, by utilizing embedded 3D printing techniques. This process involves the extrusion and suspension of composite inks within a viscoelastic gel medium, during which the alignment of the fiber can be controlled via velocity ratio, nozzle size, fiber dispersion etc. By selectively align the fiber in a 3D pattern, the mechanical properties, and conductivity can be largely improved and tuned.
Project is currently funded by: Federal