Microstructure and mechanical properties of reinforced polyamide 12 composites prepared by laser additive manufacturing

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to explore the influence of the reinforcement included either glass beads (GBs) or carbon fiber (CF) on the reinforced polyamide 12 (PA12) composite samples prepared by selective laser sintering (SLS). Design/methodology/approach In this paper, the microstructure and mechanical properties are investigated, and the results are compared with those obtained for non-reinforced pure PA12 samples prepared by SLS. Findings The tensile fracture surface of the non-reinforced pure PA12 sample presents strong micro-deformation within the crack origination zone between the melted PA12 matrix and the un-melted PA12 particle cores. As a result, the pure PA12 sample exhibits the greatest maximum elongation. The maximum tensile strength is obtained for the CF reinforced sample because of the strengthening effect of CF and the relatively good bonding between CFs and the PA12 matrix. The minimum tensile strength is obtained for the GB reinforced PA12 sample because of the relatively weak bonding between GBs and the PA12 matrix. Originality/value These results demonstrate that the characteristics of the interfaces between the reinforcement and the PA12 matrix have an important influence on the fracture mechanisms and mechanical properties of PA12 composites fabricated by SLS.