Experimental investigation of seawater exposure and specimen geometry effects on the mechanical performance of 3D-printed ABS and ABS/CF

Molina-Saqui A.; Sakihama J.; Mantari J.L.; Charca S.; Acosta-Sullcahuamán J. · Marine Systems and Ocean Technology (2026) · DOI: 10.1007/s40868-026-00225-z

Resumen

In this work, the effects of seawater exposure and specimen geometry on the mechanical performance of 3D-printed Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and carbon fiber-reinforced ABS (ABS/CF) were investigated. Enclosed 3D printers were used to avoid shrinkage and warping of ABS and ABS/CF. The standard specimen types in this research work were ASTM D638 type IV, ISO 527-2 type 1BA, and ASTM D3039 full-section specimens. The tensile tests were strain-controlled tests with a strain rate of 0.1 min− 1. Firstly, the effects of the different specimen types on the tensile strength and Young’s modulus of unaged (as-printed) ABS and ABS/CF were analyzed. Secondly, the three types of specimens were immersed in seawater for 1, 2, and 3 weeks to evaluate moisture absorption and the degradation of the mechanical properties. The results indicated that the test specimen type had a statistically significant effect on the mechanical properties of ABS and ABS/CF, with the ISO 527 specimen exhibiting the lowest tensile strength and Young’s modulus. Moreover, all ABS and ABS/CF specimens showed moisture uptake of less than 1%. After three weeks of exposure, the ABS and ABS/CF retained over 90% of their mechanical properties. The good retention of mechanical properties and moisture resistance makes these materials suitable for short-term marine applications. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Sociedade Brasileira de Engenharia Naval 2026.

Instituciones: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú; Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería; Universidad de Ingeniería y Tecnología