3D PRINTING TPU COMPOSITES WITH CONTINUOUS CARBON FIBERS FOR IMPACT ABSORPTION APPLICATIONS

In recent years, Additive Manufacturing (AM) has become a pivotal method in the manufacturing industry, especially in producing high-temperature continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastics via 3D printing. This innovation holds immense potential for sectors like automotive, aerospace, and biotech, offering structural advantages over traditional materials. To overcome limitations in strength and durability, Composite Filament Co-extrusion (cCFC) techniques integrate carbon fibers into thermoplastic matrices. The current study investigates the mechanical properties and energy absorption of 3D-printed composites using Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and Carbon Fibers (CF) through Anisoprint cCFC. Quasi-static tests validate the improved mechanical response and flexural performance of these composites, highlighting their suitability for impact absorption applications such as automotive panels and protective gear. This research paves the way for the broader integration of TPU composites with continuous carbon fibers in various industries.