A comparative study of 3D printing and sol-gel polymer production techniques: A case study on usage of ABS polymer for radiation shielding

Abstract

This study focuses on the comparative analysis of ABS polymer samples produced using two distinct manufacturing techniques: 3D printing and the sol-gel methods. In the first approach, ABS polymer was augmented with rare earth oxides, Er2O3 and Gd2O3, in nano powder form and fabricated into test specimens using 3D printing technology. In the second approach, identical samples were prepared via the sol-gel technique involving mold-based fabrication. Elemental content analysis revealed no significant differences between the samples produced by the two methods. The study proceeds to evaluate the gamma-ray shielding, neutron shielding, temperature resistance, and SEM/EDS pictures of ABS samples generated through both techniques. 3D printing method exhibited more favorable results in terms of structure morphology and thermal stability while there is no significant difference for radiation shielding. The results provide insights into the performance and suitability of each production method for radiation shielding applications. This research not only contributes to enhancing radiation shielding technology but also informs the selection of the most appropriate fabrication method for specific applications in nuclear technologies and diagnostic energy range in medical purposes.

Keywords

• 3D printer
• Sol-gel
• Radiation shielding
• ABS polymer
• Rare earth oxides