Heat Treatment Effect on Mechanical Properties of 3D Printed Polymers

Abstract

PMMA, PC, and PEEK are thermoplastic polymers that possess favorable properties for biomedical applications. These polymers have been used in fields of maxillo-facial, orthopedic, intraocular surgery, and bio-implant, due to their excellent mechanical properties, osteoinductive potential, and antimicrobial capabilities. In this study, the effect of heat treatment on the mechanical properties of 3D printed polymers was characterized. By modifying printing temperature and post heat treatment process, the mechanical properties were specifically tailored for different applications, correlating with the properties of the implants that are commonly made using molding processes.