Optimizing 3D printing parameters for enhanced electroactive PVDF formation

Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is an electroactive polymer with unique piezoelectric and triboeletric properties. Using Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) to fabricate PVDF devices is still in its infancy, with only limited studies available in the literature. In this context, one challenge is obtaining a high electroactive β-phase content within the fabricated PVDF to maximize the material's electroactive properties. This work uses the FFF technique to fabricate PVDF smart materials to capture mechanical energy. Various printing parameters were studied to investigate their effect on the resultant structure in terms of electroactive β-phase formation. The varied printing parameters were nozzle diameter, printing speed, layer height, and temperature. The obtained structures were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) technique and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) to quantify the β-phase content. Mechanical and electrical characterization was performed to evaluate the mechanical characteristics and output response of the manufactured structures.