LAUSR

A comprehensive understanding of process–structure–property relationship of 3D printed parts is currently limited. In the present study, we investigate the influence of the mesostructure on the overall mechanical behavior of the parts synthesized via fused filament fabrication. In particular, characterization of anisotropic behavior is carefully studied by performing mechanical testing on the printed parts. The printed parts are treated as laminates and are characterized using laminate mechanics. Test coupons of thick layered and also thin layered unidirectional as well as bidirectional laminates are printed with polymeric material for tensile and bending tests. Test results revealed that the process parameters govern the mesostructure and therefore the material behavior of the parts. Mechanical behavior of the bidirectional printed laminates is studied in detail. The properties are significantly influenced by the layer thickness and layup order of the printed parts. Mechanical behavior of the printed parts can be characterized using laminate theory. The effect of lamina layup and layer thickness on the flexural properties of the laminates is significant. Furthermore, the first ply failure theory is employed for the finite element failure analysis of the printed parts. The results provide insights in the relationship between mesostructure–mechanical properties of the printed parts.