Embedding 3D Printed Filaments with Knitted Textiles: Investigation of Bonding Parameters

The advancements in additive manufacturing technology and new materials paved the way for 3D printed textile-like structures. However, achieving the comfort and fit of traditional textiles and joining of the 3D printed segments have been challenging. Embedding 3D printed polymers with textiles using fused deposition modeling offers possibilities for innovative hybrid structures and end-products without compromising on the flexibility and unique qualities of the traditional textiles. This study investigates 3D printing of flexible thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer and rigid polylactic acid filaments on polyester and polyamide knitted textiles, and on laminated neoprene textiles. Perpendicular and shear tensile strength are tested before and after washing the samples manufactured by direct deposition of different filaments onto different textiles in multiple 3D forms. Results show that TPU filament is compatible with all textile surfaces and neoprene shows the best adhesion with all filament types before and after washing.