Development of sustainable 3D-Printed textiles for footwear applications

Hajiyavand, Arya (2024). Development of sustainable 3D-Printed textiles for footwear applications. University of Birmingham. M.Sc.

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Abstract

Significant issues that negatively impact sustainability and the environment can be found by analysing conventional textile manufacturing methods. The primary objective of this research is to create a variety of 3D-printed textiles that can match or surpass the quality and performance of industrial textiles while also serving specific individual requirements due to their distinctive properties. Furthermore, the 3D printing parameters will be adjusted within Cura's settings, and emissions during each print will be recorded for comparison within the sample range. Design optimisation will also be in place. The UltiMaker S5 was employed to perform FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) 3D printing with TPU materials in the primary research configuration.

It is essential to acknowledge that customising the parameters and optimising designs for printing can produce high-quality textile samples with various mechanical properties. The design and printing parameters have been identified as critical factors besides the material type. During the modelling of the fabric structure, it was determined that removing the outer layer walls of the 3D model in the slicer program and incorporating infill patterns that closely resemble textile layers could result in a textile structure comparable to some conventional textiles in the industry.

The discoveries are important because they enable the creation of breathable textiles that demonstrate performance equal to or better than traditional fabrics. Based on the outcomes, there is a potential to create a range of textiles solely from TPU that have a consistent appearance and customisable properties. Although these TPU textiles are highly flexible and stretchy, their strength and durability properties still need improvement.

The study will produce several TPU print samples, comparing and refining designs and configurations to generate a broader range of fabrics for various uses, such as footwear applications. Furthermore, research into the eﬀectiveness of diﬀerent printing settings and controlling the emissions produced during each print could move us forward towards a 3D-printed textile that can be a suitable replacement for conventional fabric used in
industry.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Sc.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Sc.

Supervisor(s):