Driving 3D printing innovation with Maine’s boatbuilding industry
Researchers are working with Maine boatbuilders to explore how 3D printing with sustainable, economical wood-filled plastics can reduce lead times (by as much as 75%) and costs for boat molds and parts. In collaboration with Oak Ridge National Lab, researchers printed a 16′ x 8′ roof mold for a tender designed by Hodgdon Yachts (located in East Boothbay, ME).
Award-Winning 3D printed sustainable biocomposite foam
Researchers at the Advanced Structures and Composites Center and Oak Ridge National Laboratory investigated the impact of micro-cellulose fibers (MFC) on foaming behavior in an MFC-polylactic acid feedstock, allowing for increased long-term sustainability and economical solutions in new applications of additive manufacturing. This research garnered the ACE award for outstanding achievement in innovation in green composites design from the American Composites Manufacturers Association. maleic anhydride thermoplastic resin with Wood Flour added as a biofiller. We test several thermoplastic materials (best polymers for 3DP) ranging from fully biobased (polylactic acid, PLA) to those like PET and SMA that can be made from bioderived resins.
3D printed formwork for offshore wind components
Collaborative research across the Hub & Spoke SM²ART resulted in developing a 3D printed support for the keystone cap of an offshore wind hull utilizing wood-filled plastics that leads to a 15% decrease in concrete required as compared to traditional supports. The application leads to greater than 25% cost savings in material, time, and labor as compared to traditional wood supports for offshore wind hulls.
Primary Contacts
Dr. Susan MacKay
Senior R&D Program Manager
Dr. Soydan Ozcan
Principal Investigator & Program Lead
