We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Greening Fused Deposition Modeling: A Critical Review of Plant Fiber-Reinforced PLA-Based 3D-Printed Biocomposites
Summary
This review covers advances in 3D printing with plant fiber-reinforced PLA (a biodegradable plastic), examining how natural cellulose fibers can strengthen printed materials while reducing reliance on petroleum-based plastics. While not directly about microplastic health effects, the development of biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics is relevant to reducing the microplastic pollution that enters the environment and human body.
Fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing (3DP) of PLA biocomposites reinforced with plant-derived cellulosic fibrous materials, including spun yarn, microcrystalline, microfibrillar, nanofibrillar cellulose, and cellulose nanocrystals, offers an environmentally sustainable solution to the mechanical limitations of polymer-only printed materials. Micron- and submicron-scale cellulosic fibers are valued for their renewability, non-toxicity, high surface area, and favorable elastic and specific moduli; notably, micron-scale reinforcements are particularly attractive due to their ease of large-scale industrial production and commercial viability. Similarly, PLA benefits from large-scale production, contributes to CO2 sequestration through its raw material precursors, and requires less energy for production than non-biodegradable petroleum-derived polymers. Incorporating these raw materials, each of which offers attractive performance properties, complementary commercial strengths, and environmental benefits, as constituent phases in FDM 3D-printed biocomposites (FDMPBs) can further enhance the environmental responsiveness of an already low-waste FDM 3DP technology. Inspired by these compelling advantages, this paper critically reviews research on FDMPB with cellulosic reinforcements in a PLA matrix, uniquely categorizing studies based on the form of cellulosic reinforcement and its impact on the biocomposite’s structure and mechanical performance. Additionally, the review covers biocomposite filament production methods and the equipment involved, presenting an alternative framework for cataloging FDMPB research. A comprehensive literature analysis reveals that the wide variation in feedstocks, fiber–matrix compounding methods, equipment, and processing parameters used in filament production and 3DP complicates the comparison of FDMPB mechanical properties across studies, often resulting in conflicting outcomes. Key processing parameters have been compiled to bridge this gap and offer a more nuanced understanding of the cause-and-effect relationships governing biocomposite properties. Finally, targeted recommendations for future research on developing FDMPB with a PLA matrix and micron-scale cellulosic reinforcements are provided, addressing the knowledge gaps and challenges highlighted in the peer-reviewed literature.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Potential Analysis for the Use of Bio-Based Plastics with Natural Fiber Reinforcement in Additive Manufacturing
Researchers reviewed the potential for using plant-based (bio-based) plastics reinforced with natural fibers in 3D printing as a sustainable alternative to fossil-fuel-derived composites, finding that while such materials could offer comparable strength at lower environmental cost, economic viability and biodegradability under real-world conditions remain challenges.
Cellulose-Based Materials as a Sustainable Alternative to Plastics: Mitigating Environmental Pollution Through Biodegradability and Reduced Toxicity
This research review shows that materials made from cellulose (the stuff in plant cell walls) could replace regular plastics and help protect human health. Unlike regular plastics that break down into tiny harmful pieces called microplastics that get into our food and water, cellulose materials naturally break down into safe, non-toxic compounds. Making the switch could reduce the plastic pollution that's contaminating our environment and potentially harming our health.
Sustainable Materials and Technologies for Biomedical Applications
This review covers sustainable biomaterials for medical implants, including 3D-printed devices made from biopolymers, ceramics, and composites. While not directly about microplastics, it is relevant because developing biodegradable alternatives to traditional plastics in medical devices could reduce the amount of plastic waste that eventually breaks down into microplastics. The research highlights how sustainable manufacturing could help address plastic pollution at its source.
Three-Dimensional Printing of Multifunctional Composites: Fabrication, Applications, and Biodegradability Assessment
This paper is not about microplastics; it is a materials science review of polymer composites used in 3D printing, examining additive types, biodegradation pathways, and the environmental safety of biodegradable biocomposites.
Developing Eco-Friendly 3D-Printing Composite Filament: Utilizing Palm Midrib to Reinforce High-Density Polyethylene Matrix in Design Applications
This paper is not about microplastics. It describes the development of 3D-printing filaments made from high-density polyethylene reinforced with palm midrib nanoparticles for use in furniture and interior design. While the study uses a plastic polymer, it focuses on materials engineering and sustainable filament production rather than microplastic contamination or health effects.