Durability of Additive manufactured polymers and their composites in prolonger environments
Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) enables the fabrication of near-net-shape components directly from 3D computer-aided design (CAD) data. It is revolutionizing the design and manufacturing process for nearly all classes of materials, i.e. ceramics, metals, polymers and their composites. Relevant to this transition in manufacturing, polymers are replacing metallic materials in many applications involving marine environments. The majority of these polymers are advanced thermoplastics, and many are now available as filament materials for AM via fused deposition modeling (FDM). The application of polymer AM could ignite transformational changes in the development of next-generation naval systems, including autonomous and unmanned underwater vehicles. However, the effects of AM processing on the performance/durability of thermoplastic and thermoplastic composites under prolonged marine environment must be fully understood. In this proposed two-year research program, a team of investigators from the University of Washington will pursue three core specific aims including: Aim 1 - evaluate quantifiable data in the literature concerning the long-term durability of “conventionally processed” polymers exposed to marine environments and identify the most promising candidate polymer systems for “marinerobust” AM structures; Aim 2 - experimentally characterize the durability and hydrodynamic characteristics of selected thermoplastics after AM processing under prolonged marine exposure, and Aim 3 - develop new understanding focused on the durability and hydrodynamic stability of fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites under this environment. The proposed activities will engage undergraduate and graduate students in the engineering departments of the UW and utilize the extensive facilities at the UW for AM and characterization of the materials performance. The core aims will identify the most promising polymers for AM of marine applications. They will also distinguish the key issues in AM processing that will require further effort. Complementary supplemental aims are envisioned, involving continued engagement of the UW and NUWC Keyport teams, which will: i) explore the introduction of additives for resistance to bio-fouling and self-repair, ii) distinguish the surface topography and/or coatings for achieving hydrophobicity and resistance to water penetration, and iii) explore bio-inspired strategies for achieving robust solutions to the required durability and functionality of the marine systems. This extended effort will result in marine-robust material systems for polymer AM that support the design and development of next-generation naval systems, including autonomous and unmanned underwater vehicles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 13, 2025
- Source ID
- N001742010004
Entities
People
- Dwayne Arola
Organizations
- United States Navy
- University of Washington