Issue 42, 2023

Stereolithographic 3D printing of pure poly(ether–ester) networks from spirocyclic monomers via cationic ring-opening photopolymerization at high temperatures

Abstract

We demonstrate for the first time stereolithographic (SL) printing of pure poly(ether–esters) based on cationic ring-opening photopolymerization without the need to accelerate curing via radical mechanisms. To minimize shrinkage stress in bulk-photopolymer parts, spiro-orthoesters have been utilized as expanding monomers. In combination with a bifunctional spiro-orthoester or epoxide, previously inaccessible pure aliphatic poly(ether–ester) parts have been printed via Hot Lithography, an SL process at elevated temperatures. Precision part size, high resolution and excellent surface-finish could be achieved. During monomer evaluation, the changes in reactivity and polymerization mode of photopolymerization at elevated temperatures were investigated with photo-DSC analysis. Convincing (thermo-)mechanical properties of the cured materials were determined with DMTA and tensile testing. This technological advance gives access to SL manufacturing of a highly regarded material class due to the biocompatibility and biodegradability of aliphatic poly(ether–esters), which frequently find application in medical applications where flexible and highly precise part design is key.

Graphical abstract: Stereolithographic 3D printing of pure poly(ether–ester) networks from spirocyclic monomers via cationic ring-opening photopolymerization at high temperatures

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
03 jul 2023
Accepted
12 set 2023
First published
18 set 2023
This article is Open Access
Creative Commons BY license

Polym. Chem., 2023,14, 4809-4818

Stereolithographic 3D printing of pure poly(ether–ester) networks from spirocyclic monomers via cationic ring-opening photopolymerization at high temperatures

D. Kojic, K. Ehrmann, R. Wolff, Y. Mete, T. Koch, J. Stampfl, S. Baudis and R. Liska, Polym. Chem., 2023, 14, 4809 DOI: 10.1039/D3PY00787A

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