Investigations on the effect of vapor smoothing process in trichloromethane (chloroform) on the surface characteristics, mechanical properties and chemical structure of 3D printed Poly-Lactic-Acid (PLA)

Abstract 3D printing has become a prominent method for prototyping and manufacturing intricate geometric components. However, the inherent staircase effect often leaves 3D printed parts with suboptimal surface smoothness. To address this issue, post-processing techniques like vapor smoothing, involving the use of trichloromethane (chloroform) vapors, are employed. This paper presents experimental investigations on 3D printed PLA parts subjected to vapor smoothing, with a focus on varying the process time. Experimental determinations of elongation, tensile strength, and surface finish provide insights into the influence of process time on these critical features of 3D printed PLA components. The selection of an optimal process time emerges as a crucial factor in achieving a harmonious balance between surface characteristics and mechanical properties. The novelty of this research lies in establishing correlations between changes in PLA elongation, tensile strength, and surface finish post-vapor smoothing and the corresponding alterations in the chemical structure of PLA. The study reveals the synergistic physical and chemical interactions between chloroform vapors and PLA structure that result in enhanced surface finish. Simultaneously, the process time is identified as a key determinant governing the extent of changes in mechanical properties. Consequently, this work aims to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for the observed combination of properties and surface characteristics through Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis concerning vapor smoothing process time.