Nanostructured materials and exploiting their properties in stereolithography (SL) may open
new markets for unique rapidly manufactured functional devices. Controlled amounts of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were successfully dispersed in SL epoxy-based resins and
complex three-dimensional (3D) parts were successfully fabricated by means of a multi-material
SL setup. The effect of the nanosized filler was evaluated using mechanical testing. Small
dispersions of MWCNTs resulted in significant effects on the physical properties of the
polymerized resin. A MWCNT concentration of .05 wt% (w/v) in DSM Somos® WaterShed™
11120 resin increased the ultimate tensile stress and fracture stress an average of 17% and 37%,
respectively. Electron microscopy was used to examine the morphology of the nanocomposite
and results showed affinity between the MWCNTs and SL resin and identified buckled
nanotubes that illustrated strong interfacial bonding. These improved physical properties may
provide opportunities for using nanocomposite SL resins in end-use applications. Varying types
and concentrations of nanomaterials can be used to tailor existing SL resins for particular
applications.Mechanical Engineerin
