J. William Boley

Nanoparticle Composite Inks for 4D Printing Shape Shifting Structures

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Here in the Additive Assembly Lab (AAL) we are exploring ways in which we can exploit and implement this 4D printing approach into manufacturing of different shape shifting applications. We are exploring the incorporation of different nanoparticle systems to impart the necessary shear thinning, shear yielding response into the inks for 3D printability in the context of DIW. Hence, this will allow the formulation of inks with suitable properties for DIW, which ultimately can be applied to 4D printing applications. In addition to 3D printability, this project is focused on incorporating other nanoparticles into the polymer system to enable further tuning of stimulus and mechanical properties of the cured structures. In this project, the student will be working with mechanical and stimulus response testing of different materials and preparing suitable inks for DIW. Aside from ink preparation, the student will work closely with the design of print paths to develop shape shifting structures. After designing the print path, the student will be printing samples and characterizing the different shape-shifting and mechanical responses of the 4D printed structures.

LABORATORY MENTOR

Javier M. Morales Ferrer

RESEARCH GOALS

-Characterize mechanical and stimuli responsive properties of the materials.
-Develop suitable inks for DIW.
-Design corresponding print paths for 4D printing.
-Print and characterize shape shifting structures.

LEARNING GOALS

-Learn how to prepare suitable nanoparticle composite inks for 4D printing.
-Learn about material characterization.
-Learn how to create custom print paths.
-Gain understanding on AM methods.
-Gain basic understanding on how to operate lab equipment.

Learn more about Professor Boley and his lab on his faculty page.