Analysis of the material properties involved in laser sintering of thermoplastic polyurethane

As laser sintering is increasingly being used for the production of actual end-use parts, there is considerable interest in developing materials that would enable new applications for this technique. Considering their properties and current applications, elastomeric polymers such as thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) have a very high potential in this regard. This study investigates the material properties that are involved in TPU sintering through the analysis of four distinct TPU grades. Examined parameters include powder flow, rheology of the melt and shrinkage and hardening behavior. It is found that, even though the particle morphology is not optimum, smooth and dense powder layers can be deposited for the investigated powders. Low melt viscosity and low shrinkage upon hardening further enable these materials to be easily processed into functional parts. Remaining issues, however, are part porosity and material degradation. The findings in this study provide clear links between material properties and behavior during laser sintering, and result in guidelines for future selection of TPU grades.