Thermo-mechanical behavior and thermochromic properties of 3D-printed PLA polymer

This study focused on exploring the behavior of 3D-printed thermochromic PLA structures under varying temperature and frequency using DMA. The specimens tested were produced using the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique. The present work aims to determine the temperature range that yields optimal performance of 3D-printed thermochromic PLA structures and examined the effects of thermomechanical testing on their thermal properties. This helps to understand the behavior of the material under different conditions and to identify its limitations and potentials. In addition, the 3D-printed thermochromic PLA specimens were subjected to testing to further confirm that material properties have a significant impact on the mechanical and thermal responses, including softening, hysteresis loop, and permanent set. This information is valuable for optimizing the performance of these structures and developing new applications for smart materials in manufacturing.