Phosphor Powders‐incorporated Polylactic Acid Polymeric Composite Used As 3D Printing Filaments with Green Luminescence Properties

ABSTRACTA new class of multifunctional nanocomposites holds strong potential in three‐dimensional (3D) printing. In this study, SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ powders with fluorescence property were modified with SiO2 to improve its dispersibility and compatibility in the polylactic acid (PLA) matrix. The composite filaments with a diameter of 1.75 ± 0.05 mm containing 2 wt % of modified particles were prepared by a melt blending method. The fluorescent analysis reveals that the composite filaments can be excited by light with a broad band of wavelength from 345 to 455 nm with the highest excitation intensity at 426 nm and have a major emission peak at 487 nm. The morphological analysis and mechanical performance testing on the printed samples showed that modified particles were uniformly dispersed within the PLA matrix and improved the mechanical properties of the composite filaments. Moreover, the modified particles improved hydrophobic behavior and antibacterial properties in comparison with unmodified composite. Therefore, the composite material will have potential applications such as making prototypes for customized furniture and accessories by 3D printing technology. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48644.