Smart 3D printed structural components with self-monitoring ability show potential applications in some extreme environments, such as deep-water and space. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) provides a feasible solution; however, it is still a big challenge to print structural components with high bending and stretching mechanical properties because of the weak interlayer bonding and the pores. Here, a low-cost and facile fabrication strategy of smart components combining FDM with laser-scribing technology is reported. A thin laser-induced graphene (LIG) layer (∼50 μm) can serve as the active materials of sensors, which can be obtained on the printed polyetheretherketone (PEEK) components. Accordingly, the PEEK-LIG smart components (PEEK-LIG SCs) can self-monitor the working process and the deformations (bidirectional bending and stretching) in real time with high sensitivity. For instance, the gauge factors of PEEK-LIG SCs for bending outward and stretching are up to 155.36 and 212.35 (2-5% strain), respectively. Besides, the PEEK-LIG SCs possess good reliability (>1000 cycles), fast response time (60 ms), and recovery time (247 ms). We further show the excellent performance of the PEEK-LIG smart gear in monitoring the rotation and the abrasion, indicating the wide potential applications of this strategy.
Keywords: 3D printing; PEEK; laser-induced graphene; sensors; smart components.