Compatible composites filaments based on PHB/starch for 3d printing via fused deposition modeling

Abstract The increasing interest in biopolymers for fabricating biomaterials via 3D printing is driven by their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and non-toxic properties. Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) has emerged as a promising candidate, particularly for tissue engineering applications. However, its high production cost and inherent limitations, such as low mechanical strength and thermal instability, hinder broader adoption. To address these challenges, PHB can be blended with natural additives or biopolymers like starch and cellulose to improve its properties. In this study, 3D printing filaments were developed using PHB-starch blends, leveraging a custom-made extruder to produce flexible and homogeneous filaments. These filaments demonstrated suitable printability in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printers, enabling the fabrication of three-dimensional structures. The resulting composites exhibit enhanced performance characteristics, making them attractive for biomedical applications. This work underscores the potential of PHB in advancing sustainable and functional materials for 3D printing. Graphical Abstract