Mechanical and kinetic characterization of additively manufactured PLA structures for improved process and warpage modeling

This work focuses on the kinetic and thermomechanical characterization of a polylactide (PLA) in the context of material extrusion (MEX) to gain a basis for material modeling that can be utilized to predict process-induced deformations throughout the process chain using process simulation. The research provides a detailed understanding of the material behavior at different process stages and the mechanisms contributing to residual stresses and warpage. This is achieved through experimental investigations using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and thermomechanical analysis (TMA). In order to cover each process step, the experiments are performed on printed and partly on raw material. Finally, the discussed results are summarized in a recommendation as to which effects should be considered in each process step for adequate warpage prediction.