Optimizing the multifunctional properties of a laser-melted PLA/HDPE/SiO ₂ /GPN nanocomposite using response surface methodology

The development of new high-strength, lightweight materials for demanding industrial applications is a critical need. This work utilizes advanced technology of selective laser melting (SLM) to manufacture a novel PLA/HDPE/SiO 2 /GPN nanocomposite, aiming to achieve superior electrical, mechanical, and thermal performance. The influence of key parameters of GPN content, SiO 2 content, laser power, and scan rate on the nanocomposite’s properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength, crystallization temperature and electrical conductivity, was examined using Central-Composite response surface methodology (RSM). Thermal and electrical properties were evaluated via TGA, DSC and four-probe test. The microstructure analysis was also performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The incorporation of GPN and SiO 2 nanoparticles was found to significantly enhance thermal stability and electrical conductivity. Subsequently, optimization via RSM and desirability function analysis (DFA) estimated the optimal parameters for concurrent improvement of tensile strength and flexural strength as 1.8 wt% GPN, 1.9 wt% SiO 2 , 16.5 W laser power, and a 2593 mm/s scan rate.