The well-known materials science team has made important progress in the field of 3D printing thermosetting materials. They combine salt particles and thermosetting material prepolymers into a 3D printable "composite ink", which can realize a variety of thermosetting materials (such as cross-linked polyester, polyurethane Vinegar, epoxy resin) direct extrusion 3D printing.
3D printing technology can quickly and efficiently manufacture fine and complex three-dimensional structures, and has shown good application prospects in many fields. Thermosetting materials have excellent mechanical properties, thermal stability and chemical resistance. However, the molding of most thermosetting materials (especially non-photocurable materials) requires a long cross-linking process, which is difficult to match the continuous manufacturing method of 3D printing.
 In this regard, the team proposed a novel strategy to combine salt granules and thermosetting material prepolymers into a 3D printable "composite ink". The salt granules act as a thickener in the 3D printing process to ensure smooth printing Forming; in the process of thermal curing, the salt granules also act as a reinforcing agent to achieve the three-dimensional printing structure of high-temperature and high-vacuum cross-linking process shape retention; in the printing process, the salt granules are cured and can be easily water After dissolution and removal, a porous structure was obtained as a porogen. The inspiration for adding salt is from the concrete materials commonly used in dry civil engineering. Cement mixed with a certain proportion of stones, sand and other filling materials can strengthen the support structure and increase the compressive strength.
 This strategy has good versatility, and can realize direct extrusion 3D printing of a variety of thermosetting materials. The printed structure also has micropores that are difficult to obtain by conventional 3D printing.