The wide use of elastomers in daily objects as well as in the industry makes them an attractive material to be explored in combination with the increasingly popular Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies. Compared to stiff polymers, 3D printing of elastomers is currently in its early stages, with the mechanical processing limitations of the machines and the restricted range of compatible materials contributing to this scenario. The potential applications of elastic parts produced by AM beyond prototypes and display pieces is also an issue that needs to be considered. In this context, this work addresses the 3D printing of elastomers and provides an insight into their applicability for the production of operational components. The goal is to understand what can be done nowadays with 3D printed elastomers. An examination of the AM technologies available in the market is conducted, along with an overview of commercial rubber-like materials suitable for 3D printers. Physical properties of selected material options from different classes are investigated through thermomechanical testing. To this end, thermoplastic polyurethanes, silicones and UV-curable polymers were submitted to caloric, quasi-static and dynamic mechanical experiments. The evaluation of properties such as tensile strength, elongation a break and elasticity together with the quantification of hysteresis and Mullins effect under cyclic loading and stress relaxation under tension, as well as the characterisation of viscoelastic behaviour, allowed the development of a database of rubber-like materials processed with various AM technologies. The mechanical behaviour of materials investigated is comparatively analysed and their suitability for functional applications is assessed. The broad range of properties, including damping capabilities, resilience and service temperatures, as well as the feasible operating uses are then discussed.    «

The wide use of elastomers in daily objects as well as in the industry makes them an attractive material to be explored in combination with the increasingly popular Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies. Compared to stiff polymers, 3D printing of elastomers is currently in its early stages, with the mechanical processing limitations of the machines and the restricted range of compatible materials contributing to this scenario. The potential applications of elastic parts produced by AM beyond...    »