title: 3D-printing of lightweight cellular composites.
abstract: A new epoxy-based ink is reported, which enables 3D printing of lightweight cellular composites with controlled alignment of multiscale, high-aspectratio fiber reinforcement to create hierarchical structures inspired by balsa wood. Young's modulus values up to 10 times higher than existing commercially available 3D-printed polymers are attainable, while comparable strength values are maintained.
authors.affiliation: School of Engineering and Applies Sciences, Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University Cambridge, MA, 02318, USA.
authors.forename: Brett G
authors.initials: BG
authors.lastname: Compton
authors.forename: Jennifer A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Lewis
mesh_terms: D040761:Biomimetic Materials / Q000737:chemistry*; D035161:Bombacaceae; D055119:Elastic Modulus; D004852:Epoxy Compounds / Q000737:chemistry*; D007281:Ink; D008422:Materials Testing; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry; D066330:Printing, Three-Dimensional; D013718:Tensile Strength; D014783:Viscosity
chemical_list: D004852:Epoxy Compounds; D011108:Polymers
keywords: 3D printing; cellular; epoxy; fiber composite; honeycomb