The effect of toolpath design on the mechanical strength of additively manufactured glass components

To date, there has been a paucity of results regarding mechanical properties of additively manufactured (AM) glass. The findings herein provide valuable insights into optimising AM processes for glass, aiming to enhance the reliability, structural performance, and practical application of glass components in both engineering and architectural contexts. This study investigates the mechanical behaviour of glass components fabricated using a Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) type technique. The research focuses on understanding the bending strength and overall structural integrity of FDM-manufactured glass, in comparison to conventionally prepared glass, with particular attention to the layer-to-layer bonding imparted by the AM process. Soda-lime glass rods, produced via an automated pulling method, were used as filament feedstock for the AM process. Mechanical testing, including four-point bending, highlighted the influence of layer orientation and AM toolpath on mechanical performance. The results show toolpath optimisation can improve strength by controlling heat retention during deposition.