Modified cork/SEBS composites for 3D printed elastomers

Abstract

Three dimensional (3D) printed elastomers is a challenge which can be overcome using fillers. With that in perspective, cork was chemically modified via a two-step reaction, aiming to achieve better compatibility with styrene-ethylene-butylenestyrene (SEBS). In the first step, the OH groups of cork surface were grafted with succinic acid, while in the second step the free acid groups were reacted with a polyol to produce ester moieties. Spectroscopy analysis confirmed the occurrence of the chemical reaction which was supported by contact angle (CA) measurements.The unmodified cork presents a CA of 117.7 , while the modified cork presents a CA of 92.4 which is closer to that of SEBS (102.8 ), resulting in better compatibility between the modified filler with the matrix. In fact, the enhancement of compatibility between polymer and filler was observed by inspecting the layer-to-layer bonding and was confirmed by the mechanical properties of the 3D printed composites, since the modified cork-based composite presented higher Young modulus, maximum stress and elongation at break when compared to the untreated counterparts. Additionally, the advantage of the chemical treatment was evaluated by analyzing the processability of composites. The modified filler-based composite, presents lower glass transition temperature (T g ), higher melt flow index (MFI) and higher thermal stability.Overall, in this work, a simple chemical route to modify lignocellulosic biomass and its benefit on the properties of 3D printing objects is discussed. The improved performance and sustainability of the 3D printed objects produced to be used for example in shoe applications was presented.

Exploring the Role of Compatibilizers in Modulating the Interfacial Phenomena and Improving the Properties of Cork–Nylon Composites

“…To explore the possibility of improving the interfacial interaction and its effect on physical properties, surface modification of the cork granules was performed using different types and amounts of interfacial/compatibilizing agents to promote the interaction between the cork particles and the polymer matrix. Recently, cork particles functionalized by surface polymerization and grafting from cork via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) were reported to improve the interfacial adhesion and quality of the three-dimensional (3D) printed product. ,, However, such processes are multistep, complex, and cost-intensive. Here, we attempted to use a simple physical mixing of different compatibilizers within the P-CCs to achieve the goal.…”

“…Recently, cork particles functionalized by surface polymerization and grafting from cork via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) were reported to improve the interfacial adhesion and quality of the three-dimensional (3D) printed product. 28,46,47 However, such processes are multistep, complex, and cost-intensive. Here, we attempted to use a simple physical mixing of different compatibilizers within the P-CCs to achieve the goal.…”

Transforming wastes into functional materials: natural cork-based physical structural components and polymers

“…98 In additive manufacturing, cork powder or pellets often serve as additives to 3D printed polymer matrices in FFF, yielding composite materials like PLA-cork composites, [99][100][101] PPcork composites, 102,103 PU-cork composites 104 (Fig. 10a), SEBScork composites, 105 among others. Significant advancements and design applications have been achieved, including one-toone scale furniture prototypes, showcasing the synergy between cork and the potential offered by these technologies for handling complex shapes.…”

Strategies for Improving Sustainability in the Development of High-Performance Styrenic Block Copolymers by Developing Blends with Cellulose Derivatives

“…In this regard, the use of organic agents of natural origin to meet sustainable demands is increasingly being considered. In the particular case of SEBS as a polymer matrix, it can be blended with biomass derivatives ranging from cellulose nanofibers [ 26 ] and cork [ 27 ] to pineapple leaf fibers [ 28 ]. However, more research is necessary to improve functionality and properties, and to broaden the potential range of applications.…”