Introduction: Additive technology offers fast and affordable production of prototypes and final products. The main advantages are shorter development times, easy testing of ideas, less waste, and the ability to make complex structures. It is used in many industries, including healthcare and rehabilitation. Despite its many advantages, technology has some limitations, such as limited dimensions of final products, lower productivity in mass production, and uncertain mechanical properties. The challenge still exists in selecting suitable materials. The most frequently used materials are polylactic acid (PLA), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Reinforcing materials are increasingly used to improve the mechanical properties of these materials. In this study, we have analyzed a TPU-based biocomposite reinforced with cellulose fibers. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to analyze the mechanical properties of a 3D-printed TPU biocomposite with different weight percentages of cellulose fibers (10 wt. %, 15 wt. %, and 20 wt. %). The results were compared with a carbon fiber-reinforced TPU composite and assessed for their potential use in orthotics and prosthetics. Methods: We prepared filaments from pure TPU and TPU mixtures with cellulose fibers, then printed the test specimens with a 3D printer. Measurements of Shore A and D hardness were made, and a tensile test was done to define the Young's modulus, tensile strength, and rupture elongation. Results: Adding cellulose fibers causes increases in hardness. The highest measured was for the TPU + 20 wt. % cellulose fibers (Shore A = 87). The Young's modulus of this sample increased from 30 MPa to 108 MPa compared to pure TPU, while the tensile strength (from 21 MPa to 11 MPa) and rupture elongation (from 475 % to 70 %) decreased. Discussion and conclusion: Based on the results we concluded that the content of cellulose fibers affects the mechanical properties of TPU. Cellulose fibers effectively increase the hardness and stiffness of the material, while reducing its elasticity and ductility, which leads to greater brittleness of the biocomposite. TPU with cellulose fibers has potential for the design of personalized orthoses and prostheses, where it is important to have low weight, biocompatibility and flexibility. Further investigation of the impact of mechanical stress in real use conditions is recommended for further improvement and adaptation.
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