The thermal properties of FDM printed polymeric materials: A review

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), a prevalent additive manufacturing technique utilising polymeric materials, facilitates intricate geometric customisation and rapid prototyping. The ongoing development of FDM technology emphasises the importance of the thermal characteristics of FDM-printed polymeric materials, which are essential for various applications, including aerospace and biomedical engineering. The thermal properties of FDM-printed polymeric materials, covering a wide range of thermoplastic polymers and composites, were examined in this review. Despite the versatility of FDM technology, thermal challenges persist in 3D printed parts, manifesting as anisotropy, voids, and sub-optimal conductivity, thereby impeding performance. Achieving precise control over printing parameters such as nozzle temperature, layer height, and speed is pivotal for optimising thermal properties. Additionally, controlled thermal treatments, like annealing, offer avenues for manipulating the crystalline structure of printed components to enhance the thermal conductivity. By elucidating the effects of reinforcements, this article aims to provide insights into potential enhancements and adjustments for developing thermally resistant FDM-based polymeric materials.