Mechanical and Electrical Properties of 3D-Printed Highly Conductive Reduced Graphene Oxide/Polylactic Acid Composite

A conductive network of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) overlaying on a lightweight polymeric scaffold can offer notable electrical properties while maintaining the same mechanical properties as a similar feature without rGO layer. However, conventional methods are unable to produce customized architecture with controllable electronic and mechanical properties. Herein, a simple methodology for preparing objects of complex geometries by 3D printing that possesses the capability to exhibit a diverse spectrum of conductivity levels depending upon the dip-coating process is reported. The versatile two-step process is beneficial to create highly conductive objects as low as 100 omega sq-1 and lightweight rGO networks. Alternative to inkjet printing and direct fluid dispensing methods, the fabrication method for 3D rGO networks provides the opportunity to combine material selection and advanced printing techniques, thus achieving desired performance criteria at a low cost. Simple fabrication techniques for robust 3D rGO networks hold promise for designing objects with unique properties, offering both high resistance to external mechanical force and uniform internal electronic properties. A method for fabricating 3D reduced graphene oxide (rGO) networks utilizing 3D printing technology and viscosity-optimized rGO ink is presented. This process allows for the deposition of rGO onto lightweight polymeric scaffolds, demonstrating improved electrical properties as low as 100 omega sq-1, while maintaining mechanical strength.image (c) 2024 WILEY-VCH GmbH