New filaments with natural fillers for FDM 3D printing and their applications in biomedical field

Current Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) techniques have promoted the extension of 3D printing technologies to new applications ranging from the biomedical, aerospace, and submarine fields, to some specific applications in manufacturing and civil fields. The expansion of the fields of application, generally, entails considering peculiar characteristics, such as complex geometries or requirements as low density. Furthermore, the breathability, the pleasantness to the touch, aesthetic appearance and a strong visual identity, that can be achieved by means of 3D printing, are especially requested for some applications such as biomedical. For the improvement of the manufacturing of these parts, the design of a dedicated filament is a relevant issue to be taken into account. polylactic acid (PLA) and organic by-products from agricultural waste. The study includes a preliminary illustration of the main properties of these materials and a biomedical application of such bio-plastic compounds through experimental testing in order to assess the suitability to FDM printing. In particular, the performance in terms of lightweight, strength and roughness have been evaluated. The interesting final properties make these materials suitable for biomedical applications as it is shown in this study for the neck collar prototype reported. In addition, such innovative bio-composite materials allow reducing the cost of environmental impact as well as the production management costs.