Mechanical characterization of PLA/CNT composite scaffolds fabricated by Fused Deposition Modeling

Biodegradable polymeric scaffolds for tissue reconstruction in case of critical size bone damages can be successfully manufactured using the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) process. The addition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can enhance the mechanical and electrical properties of the base polymer, thus helping the scaffolds to match the host bone properties and improving the cell adhesion, differentiation and proliferation. In this paper the FDM process is used to manufacture scaffold-like specimens made of pure PLA (polylactid acid) and a PLA/CNT composite. The mechanical characteristics of these structures are then evaluated carrying on compressive tests.