A comparison between mechanical properties of specimens 3D printed with virgin and recycled PLA

The current research was focused on a further insight into the mechanical properties of 3D parts printed with virgin and recycled polylactic acid (PLA). A first set of specimens was printed with virgin PLA filament and mechanically tested. Such specimens were then ground up and reextruded into filament using a homemade extruder. The re-extruded filament was employed to manufacture a new set of specimens which were also analysed. Three recycling processes were performed to assess the effect on the mechanical properties. The obtained results suggested that 3D printing with recycled PLA may be a viable option.