Vinyl Ester Resin for Against the Gravity Direct Ink Writing

Invention Reference Number

202505951

The technology will offer supportless DIW of complex structures using vinyl ester resin, facilitated by multidirectional 6 axis printing. Traditional approach for printing complex shapes using DIW requires support structures which complicate the tool path, increase material usage and printing time, and introduce residual stresses. The proposed resin formulation amenable to UV snap cure eliminates the need for support structures by quickly solidifying the extrudate during printing to retain the shape preventing any sagging or deformation. The additional latent peroxide cure enhances strength and toughness of the printed parts. The two-part system was engineered to be individually non-reactive, yet maintain similar viscosities to ensure uniform mixing through a static mixer integrated into a robotic-arm assembly. The robotic setup included independently controlled pneumatic pumps for precise ratio control and dual UV sources at the print head to enable rapid snap curing upon deposition. The developed two-part formulation allows prolong storage and pot life, making it suitable for printing large and intricate geometries with high precision and controls, enabling horizontal supportless printing, overhanging structures, inclined geometries, lattice structures, etc.