Formulation of a model resin system for benchmarking processing-property relationships in high-performance photo 3D printing applications

A well-defined resin system is needed to serve as a benchmark for 3D printing of high-performance composites. This work describes the design and characterization of such a system that takes into account processability and performance considerations. The Grunberg-Nissan model for resin viscosity and the Fox equation for polymer T_g were used to determine proper monomer ratios. The target viscosity of the resin was below 500 cP, and the target final T_g of the cured polymer was 150 °C based on tan-δ peak from dynamic mechanical analysis. A tri-component model resin system, termed DA-2 resin, was determined and fully characterized. The printed polymer post-cure exhibited good thermal properties and high mechanical strength, but has a comparatively low fracture toughness. The model resin will be used in additive manufacturing of fiber reinforced composite materials as well as for understanding the fundamental processing-property relationships in light-based 3D printing.