Characterizing the Microstructure and Performance of Mechanical Properties in Polylactic Acid/Copper Metal Infill Polymer Composites Fabricated through Fused Deposition Modeling

This study investigates polymer component manufacturing using fused deposition modeling, specifically focusing on the thermoplastic PLA-Cu in open-source FDM machines. Mechanical characteristics are explored, emphasizing infill density, pattern, and nozzle temperature. FDM-produced PLA-Cu specimens, varying in infill (60%, 80%, 100%) and patterns (TRIANGLE, HEXAGON, LINE), reveal superior mechanical properties in those with 100% density, TRIANGLE pattern, and a 210° nozzle temperature. ASTM-standard tests measure tensile and flexural strength, and scanning electron microscopy examines micro-morphology. Results indicate a correlation between increased strain rate and higher yield stress and elastic modulus in PLA-Cu specimens, emphasizing its engineering potential.