Protein fiber powder for 3D printed biodegradable products

Milling fibers into ultrafine particles opens up opportunities for advanced applications beyond textiles. Processing in this way provides a second life for end-of-life textiles or textile industry waste. We are exploring two approaches to use powders in 3D printing; the first is the thermoplastic extrusion of powders with degradable polymers such as Polylactic acid (PLA) and the second approach is to process via powder inkjet 3D printing. In the first approach, the polymer is the major structural component while the particles are used to modify polymer properties and to assist composite properties such as cell adhesion of printed products. In powder inkjet printing, fiber powder is the major structural and functional component. Here we are presenting the basic concepts of powder production, 3D printing and our understanding on the role of particles in changing the properties of PLA using silk and wool powders as examples.