Textile and Apparel Science

Exploring Washability of Flexible 3D Printed Textiles

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Abstract

This study aimed to explore the washability of flexible 3D printed textiles with different textile structures. All 3D printed samples with different structures were developed using a fused deposition modeling 3D printer with thermoplastic polyurethane filaments. The original weight of each sample and the weight after each wash and dry cycle were measured for calculating weight changes. The AATCC TM135 testing method was used to evaluate the dimensional stability of 3D printed samples. The results presented that all 3D printed textiles with re-entrant honeycomb auxetic structure, star-shaped auxetic structure, and plain weave woven structure had dimensional changes after being washed. The findings provide insights for manufacturers to manipulate flexible 3D printed textiles with the estimation of dimensional changes before manufacturing. The weight of flexible 3D printed textiles was not affected by washing and drying, which convinces the suitability of 3D printed textiles for the wearable product development.

Keywords: 3D Printing, Flexible 3D Printed Textiles, Washability

How to Cite:

Li, Y. & Lee, Y., (2024) “Exploring Washability of Flexible 3D Printed Textiles”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 80(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.17153