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 |
Hybrid 3D Printing Technique for Nylon–Silicone Multi-Material structures through dissolvable molds |
| Author(s) |
Gianni Stano, Andrea Ladisa, Gianluca Percoco, Douglas E Smith |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Gianni Stano |
| Abstract Scope |
This research presents a hybrid 3D-printing technology combining multi-material extrusion with automated silicone injection to fabricate soft-rigid structures. The method uses dual extrusion of Nylon as the rigid material and water-soluble Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) as a sacrificial mold. During the same printing cycle, a nozzle integrated with the printhead injects silicone into the PVA mold through an automated system controlled by g-code and a syringe pump. After silicone curing, printing resumes, and the process can be repeated to create intricate architectures. Once fabrication is completed, the component is immersed in water to dissolve the PVA and reveal the final structure. Simulations and mechanical testing demonstrate that optimized Nylon-silicone interface geometries enhance joint strength between the two materials. This technology bridges 3D printing and silicone injection molding, enabling the accessible fabrication of bio-inspired systems with rigid segments interconnected by flexible silicone joints for advanced soft robotic applications. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Undecided |