Functional 3D-Printed Polymeric Materials with Metallic Reinforcement for Use in Cut-Resistant Gloves

Abstract

Given the mechanical hazards occurring in the workplace, cut resistance is a particularly important protective parameter. 3D printing is an innovative technology that has recently garnered great interest. It enables the creation of functional polymeric materials with metal reinforcement for use in cut-resistant gloves. The present study characterized and tested 3D-printed polymeric materials intended for such applications. The materials were made from commercially available 3D printing polymer filaments. Metallic reinforcement (stainless steel wire with a diameter of 0.04 mm) was added to the two selected materials (thermoplastic polyurethane and FiberFlex30D). Tests have shown that materials containing metallic reinforcement demonstrate higher mechanical resistance. Cut resistance increased by 70%, and the force needed to tear the sample increased by over 20% compared to the pure polymer. The presence of metallic reinforcement strengthens the structure of the material and changes the cracking mechanism. The tearing occurs in the test area, not in the bell area. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of applying functional 3D-printed polymeric materials with metal reinforcement in cut-resistant gloves.