Name
Technical Session XIII - MSEC-155150
Date & Time
Thursday, June 26, 2025, 3:40 PM - 4:05 PM
Description
This study introduces an innovative top-down 3D printing approach designed for single-tank multi-material fabrication using a composite of hydrogel and Rochelle salt. The printing process involves the deposition of the composite mixture in a controlled manner within a tank, followed by the gradual lifting of the structure upwards to cool at a set height. This unique configuration allows precise layer-by-layer assembly and controlled cooling, essential for maintaining the structural integrity and fidelity of the printed parts. The research explores the influence of different Rochelle salt concentrations on the printability, mechanical stability, and homogeneity of the hydrogel-Rochelle salt mixture. By systematically varying the salt concentrations, the study identifies the optimal balance between viscosity and ionic content, which is critical for achieving high-resolution prints without compromising the electrical properties or structural durability of the material.
Furthermore, the study investigates the impact of different cooling temperatures on the curing process of the hydrogel-Rochelle salt composite. Cooling plays a pivotal role in defining the crystalline structure and conductivity of the printed materials. The results highlight how specific temperature profiles can enhance or inhibit the solidification and conductivity of the composite at varying concentrations. Conductivity tests were conducted to evaluate the printed parts, comparing their electrical performance against traditional multi-material fabrication methods that typically require separate construction and assembly. This comparison demonstrates that the integrated single-tank method offers not only improved structural precision but also optimized conductivity profiles. The potential applications of this technology are vast, spanning fields such as microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), energy storage and conversion devices, biomedical implants and scaffolds, sensors, actuators, metamaterials, and microfluidic systems. This study lays the groundwork for future developments in multi-functional and multi-material additive manufacturing technologies, emphasizing the versatility and efficiency of the single-tank 3D printing method for complex, application-specific material systems.
Location Name
Gardenia
Full Address
Hyatt Regency
220 N Main St
Greenville, SC 29601
United States
220 N Main St
Greenville, SC 29601
United States
Session Type
Technical Session
Paper #
MSEC-155150
Author List
Shuai Chen, Qingqing He, Yang Yang, Han Xu
Paper Title
Development and Optimization of a Top-Down 3D Printing System for Single-Tank Multi-Material Fabrication Using Hydrogel-Rochelle Salt Composites
Session Chair
Cindy (Xiangjia) Li