A team of scientists from India working in different Institutions and laboratories abroad have published a research on FDM 3D printing of PLA biocomposites filled with biomass resources, characterization, biodegradability, upcycling and opportunities for biorefineries.

In there research the recent developments focused on FDM printing of PLA filled with biomass resources have been critically reviewed to reveal the intricate aspects of manufacturing of such materials and characterization of the changes caused by biomass-based fillers.

What is FDM?

About FDM they said, "3D printing by fused deposition modeling (FDM) is an advanced additive manufacturing technology for making thermoplastic-based structures."

Some of the Studies are there which investigated 3D printing of polylactic acid (PLA) with biomass resources like cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin and whole biomass. According to them, those biodegradable composites are better for the environment and can be used to replace non-biodegradable composites in a variety of applications.

Other researchers' view on FDM

Another research on Tensile Behavior of 3D Printed Polylactic Acid (PLA) Based Composites Reinforced with Natural Fiber by some other researchers was done. About FDM they said, "One of the most popular 3D printing techniques is fused deposition modelling (FDM), which is based on the thermal extrusion process of a thermoplastic filament, which is melted and deposited layer by layer. Subsequently, the deposited material is cooled and solidified, and the bond between the extruded filaments is consolidated. FDM is becoming increasingly popular due to its low cost, low maintenance, and the increasing variety of raw materials for 3D printing, for instance polylactic acid (PLA), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)" They also said, " Composites from renewable resources based on FDM technology have become attractive products for construction, automobiles, furniture, and other consumer applications due to increased environmental awareness and demand for eco-friendly materials"