China3D printingNet, June 23, a team of researchers at Rice University in Texas has developed a new method of manufacturing complex graphite structures using direct ink writing (DIW) 3D printing.
Previously made with graphite3D printingAttempts to generally involve the integration of materials in powder form into a polymer matrix. Using extrusion-based technology, it is then possible to create a mechanically sound structure, but the resulting composite material usually contains less than 50% graphite by weight. Therefore, to date, 3D printed graphite parts have not really provided the thermal and electrical properties that make pure graphite so popular.
To solve this problem, researchers at Rice University have developed a colloidal 3D printable ink made of graphite powder and trace amounts of clay to achieve complex DIW parts with a purity of up to 97%.
Write the 3D printed graphite structure by direct ink. The picture is from Rice University.
Graphite: extreme mineral
Graphite is considered one of the most useful carbon allotropes, and it has many industrial applications (yes, it is more than just a pencil lead).
The material has a layered 2D atomic structure and is a key component of many high-performance lubricants. Graphite also has excellent thermal and chemical stability, enabling it to withstand the extreme environmental conditions required by molten metal crucibles and nuclear reactor cores. In addition, the well-known high conductivity of the material also makes it ideal for batteries, electrical contacts and even flexible electronic products.
However, due to the challenges of high-temperature processing and the inherent brittleness of materials, it is usually very difficult to use traditional synthesis methods to manufacture complex geometric parts made of graphite-this is a problem that 3D printing can solve.
SEM imaging of 3D printed graphite parts. The picture is from Rice University.
How to 3D print 97% of graphite parts
High-concentration graphite ink is made by adding a small amount of silicate nanoclay (3
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