Surface analysis of 3D printed parts

Abstract

Adhesion is sometimes desired and sometimes it is undesired. It all starts from the surface, this thesis delves into the intricate interplay between surface roughness and wettability, with a particular emphasis on the pivotal role of contact angle as a measurable indicator. Surface characteristics, especially roughness, profoundly influence the behaviour of liquids on solid surfaces, impacting the wetting properties. The surface studies in this thesis mostly were polymeric materials, steels, and some hybrid materials. The reason for conducting these surface studies was the presence of unwanted adhesion on the surfaces. Synthesizing findings, the thesis provides comprehensive insights into the relationship between surface roughness and contact angle, offering valuable perspectives for designing materials with tailored wetting properties. The implications of these insights extend across various disciplines, from materials science to engineering applications, where precise control over wettability is paramount. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on surface engineering, presenting a nuanced understanding of how surface topography influences contact angle dynamics and, consequently, the wetting behaviour of materials in diverse practical scenarios. To conduct this research, the most important test method was the droplet shape analyzer, as it helped in understanding the behaviour of the surface when treated with liquid. Additionally, surface profilometry was utilized to understand how roughness affects the behaviour of a surface. Optical and electron microscopy helped a lot in understanding the surface features that were influencing the behaviour of the surfaces.