About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2026 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Biosustainable Materials for a Circular Economy
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| Presentation Title |
Robocasting of a Water-based Biopolymer/WO3 Nanopowder Paste as a Precursor to Tungsten Carbide Lattices
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| Author(s) |
J. Bentley Bevis, Manasi Milind Shah, Sanketh Gombi, Rodrigo Martinez Duarte |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Manasi Milind Shah |
| Abstract Scope |
Leveraging the versatility of biopolymer-based materials, this work demonstrates a method for fabricating porous tungsten carbide (WC) structures using robocasting. A water-based, additive-free ink composed of a biopolymer matrix and tungsten oxide nanoparticles is extruded through a modified fused deposition modeling printer to create intricate 3D lattices. Subsequent heat treatment in an inert atmosphere converts these structures into porous WC while preserving the printed geometry. The study focuses on print fidelity, shrinkage behavior, and process reproducibility. Complex features, including unsupported overhangs, are reliably printed. Shrinkage during drying, debinding, and carbonization is systematically analyzed to understand dimensional evolution and ensure structural integrity. Microstructural analysis reveals a porous WC network formed by interconnected agglomerates. In situ electrical testing under mechanical compression confirms stable conductivity up to failure. These findings demonstrate the capability of biopolymer-assisted robocasting to produce robust, multifunctional ceramic components suitable for applications in energy systems and catalysis. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Additive Manufacturing, Biomaterials, Characterization |