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Materials Science in Additive Manufacturing Natural composite filaments for 3D-Print

Figure 4. Overview of the fused deposition modeling process in additive manufacturing from the fabrication to specimen generation stage

Figure 5. Classification chart for commonly used filament materials in the fused deposition modeling process

can also influence the quality of 3D prints and their non-biodegradable, natural fibers have gained notable
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corresponding structural features in the FDM process. interest in composite development in general, given their
For instance, the infill pattern and cross-sectional features distinctive, sustainable characteristics and biodegradable
are generally associated with the shell outline of 3D-printed nature. 42
parts for optimum structural stability. Commonly applied Natural fibers derive their strength from their unique
infill geometrical patterns in AM involve grid, cross, structural arrangement composed of primary and
cubic, hexagonal, and concentric patterns. In addition to secondary cell walls. 42,43 Microfibrils which are composed
the foregoing features, other printing parameters such as of key plant derivatives, namely cellulose, hemicelluloses,
layer thickness and print path among others, also affect and lignin, have a determinant role in the corresponding
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the print resolution, bonding strength, and deformation- mechanical performance of natural fibers. The mechanical
resisting ability. 18,19,41 Therefore, printing parameters, as characteristics were found to largely depend on the
a consequence, influence the structural performance of alignment of microfibrils in plant cell walls. 45,46 Even
3D-printed constructions. 5 though animal fibers have been considered in the past,
In recent years, alternative materials have been most natural fibers are derived from plant fibers, and their
considered for the development of composite filaments sources include bast, leaf, fruit, seed, and grass fibers. 42,47,48
with enhanced cost, performance, and durability traits.
One such example is fibers derived from natural or 2. Rationale to use NFRCFs in AM
synthetic sources that are processed and integrated with In recent years, alternative materials with sustainable
the various types of polymer-based matrix, as highlighted attributes such as natural fibers have been considered for
in Tables 1 and 2. In contrast to synthetic fibers which are the development of advanced composites through the AM

Volume 4 Issue 1 (2025) 4 doi: 10.36922/msam.8533