About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2026 Annual International Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium (SFF Symp 2026)
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| Symposium
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2026 Annual International Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium (SFF Symp 2026)
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| Presentation Title |
Thermal, Electrical, and Shape Memory Performance of Multifunctional TPU/PCL–SWCNT Composites for Additive Manufacturing |
| Author(s) |
Bahaa Shaqour, Vincent Berthé, Joamin GONZALEZ-GUTIERREZ |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Bahaa Shaqour |
| Abstract Scope |
This study reports the development of multifunctional composites based on thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polycaprolactone (PCL) blends loaded with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) for electroactive and shape memory applications. TPU was blended with varying loadings of a PCL-SWCNT masterbatch. The prepared formulations were systematically characterized to investigate their thermal, physicochemical, electrical, and shape memory properties. Thermal analysis revealed that the presence of PCL introduces distinct thermal transition, enabling tunable switching temperatures, while SWCNT incorporation enhances thermal stability. Physicochemical evaluations indicated improved filler network formation and dispersion, influencing processability. Electrical conductivity measurements demonstrated a clear percolation threshold, enabling efficient Joule heating at various SWCNT contents. This electrically conductive network was exploited to trigger and control shape memory recovery, showing rapid and programmable actuation. The results highlight the synergistic role of TPU elasticity, PCL crystallinity, and SWCNT conductivity in designing smart, electrically responsive materials for 3D printing applications. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Undecided |