Development of luminescence composite materials from poly(lactic acid) and europium-doped magnesium aluminate for textile applications and 3D printing process

This research aimed to develop luminescence composite materials (fibers and filaments) using polylactic acid (PLA) as a matrix and europium-doped magnesium aluminate (MgAl2O4:Eu) as a filler. To create luminescent composite materials ranging from 5 to 20 phr for fibers and 10-40 phr for filaments, different amounts of a 10% MgAl2O4:Eu/PLA masterbatch were loaded into the PLA matrix. The morphology of luminescence composite materials as well as their thermal, mechanical, and luminescent properties, was examined. The surface and cross-section of the luminescent fibers were slightly rough. However, the thermal properties were not significantly changed with increasing in the amount of MgAl2O4:Eu. Mechanical testing revealed that the strength and toughness of luminous fiber were improved when 10 phr masterbatch was loaded. The luminescence property displayed emission wavelengths between 570 and 710 nm and a strong emission peak at 615 nm under excitation at 240 nm, resulting in red or pink emission. Additionally, the fabrication of the luminescence filament for 3D printing was successfully done. The final products showed pink color under UV light as similar as that of luminescent fibers, while their mechanical properties were improved by modifying MgAl2O4:Eu with a silane coupling agent.