HIGH CRYSTALLINE POLY(LACTIC ACID) FILAMENTS FOR MATERIAL-EXTRUSION BASED ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

摘要

Provided is a new and better solution to the problems associated with the premature softening of PLA filaments in the additive manufacturing of three dimensional articles. It is based upon the finding that poly (lactic acid) filaments with high crystallinity offer much better resistance to heat-induced softening. The crystalline poly (lactic acid) filament can accordingly be used in the additive manufacturing of three dimensional articles without encountering the problems associated with premature softening, such as poor quality and printer jamming. The crystalline poly (lactic acid) filaments can also be used in additive manufacturing of three dimensional articles without compromising the quality of the ultimate product, reducing printing speed, increasing cost, or leading to increased printer complexity. It more specifically discloses a filament for use in three-dimensional printing which is comprised of crystalized poly (lactic acid), wherein said filament has a diameter which is within the range of 1.65 mm to 1.85 mm.