https://blogs.3ds.com/biovia/molecular-simulation-thermoset-curing-for-3d-printing/

In this post, my colleague @RA shares how molecular simulation can provide insights into 3D printing of thermosetting polymers.

A thermoset is a polymer that is irreversibly hardened by curing from a soft solid or viscous liquid prepolymer or resin. They offer superior solvent and heat resistance compared to thermoplastics used in conventional 3D printing processes.

The article describes how the University of Cambridge has developed methods to simulate the complex polymerization processes that occur in 3D printing of bismaleimide photo-curable inks. The methods, developed in BIOVIA Materials Studio, offer a molecular insight in the structure of large-scale 3D polymer networks. Combined with thermomechanical measurements, this can lead to a better understanding of the structure-property relationship, with potential to guide materials design.

Happy reading!