Composite Materials for 3D Printing Based on Poly(Styrene–Butadiene–Styrene) with Silver and Aluminum Particles

Abstract

The role of conductive fillers in the physical and chemical properties of composite materials based on poly(styrene-butadiene-styrene) is studied in comparison with the neat matrix. Using a three-stage extrusion method, composite materials are produced with the addition of a filler: silver or aluminum particles at a concentration of 1, 5, and 10 wt %. The structure of the composite materials is studied using wide-angle and small-angle X-ray scattering methods. The domain organization of the materials is revealed. The sizes of the filler crystallites and the value of the typical scattering order of the block copolymer is defined. Based on scanning electron microscopy data, the sizes of the filler particles and their distribution throughout the volume of the composite materials are estimated. It is found that the introduction of up to 10 wt % filler has low effect on the mechanical behavior of the composite materials compared to a polymer matrix, but changes their electrophysical properties. The principal possibility of using the obtained composite materials for 3D printing is demonstrated.