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This study explores macro-fibrillated cellulose (MFC)-reinforced Polylactic Acid (PLA) composites for 4D printing via Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), focusing on enhancing mechanical, thermal, and shape-memory properties. By blending PLA with MFC (0–5%), specimens were processed via freeze-drying, ball milling, and extrusion, then evaluated through mechanical, thermal, and shape-memory tests.
Results indicate that MFC improved thermal stability and shape recovery at ≤2.5% loading, leveraging cellulose’s reinforcing effect. Higher concentrations (>2.5%) caused agglomeration, brittleness, and extrusion inconsistencies, reducing mechanical strength. Optimal performance emerged at lower MFC levels, balancing stimuli-responsive behavior and structural integrity. The work highlights the necessity of precise filler dispersion and processing control to mitigate trade-offs between functionality and reliability.
These findings demonstrate MFC/PLA composites as promising sustainable materials for 4D printing, offering tunable environmental responsiveness. However, achieving practical viability requires stringent optimization of processing parameters to ensure homogeneity. This study advances eco-conscious smart materials for additive manufacturing, emphasizing the critical role of material composition and fabrication techniques in performance outcomes
