Effect of piezoelectric ceramic on natural frequency, structural, and thermal properties of additively manufactured PLA/BTO composite structure

Abstract

This study investigates the fabrication and characterisation of filaments and 3D-printed samples using polylactic acid (PLA) and PLA/BTO (Barium Titanate) composites via fused deposition additive manufacturing (FDAM). PLA/BTO composite filaments were prepared by blending PLA granules with BTO particles using hot extrusion. Samples were 3D printed under controlled parameters and analyzed for dynamic, thermal, and structural properties. The inclusion of BTO significantly enhanced natural frequency (11 Hz-first peak) and structural rigidity compared to pure PLA (8 Hz-first peak), particularly under cantilever beam configurations. Microstructural analysis via optical and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) revealed uniform particle dispersion and good layer adhesion in composites with a peak width of 340 ?m. Energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDS) study insisted that the presence of BTO improves functionality with minimal reinforcement with other trace elements. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed increased crystallinity in PLA/BTO samples and improved alignment of the crystalline regions post-FDAM process, while Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) demonstrated molecular interactions between PLA and BTO and highlights the structural modifications in the composite due to the act of BTO reinforcement as nucleating agent. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) highlighted enhanced thermal stability and modified crystallinity due to BTO incorporation. Printed PLA/BTO demonstrates the highest resistance to thermal degradation than pure PLA, with degradation onset at an elevated temperature. Results validate the suitability of PLA/BTO composites for applications requiring tailored dynamic, thermal, and structural properties, emphasizing the FDAM process's potential for advanced material development. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd and Techna Group S.r.l.