Only skin deep? Depth-resolved photo-oxidation of 3D printed polymers PLA, ABS, PETG, HIPS and PC after 322 days of continuous UV exposure
The research separated individual effects of photooxidation from long-term UV exposure on PLA, ABS, PETG, HIPS, and PC 3D prints. Findings show PLA is highly resistant with no changes observed after 7744 hours. ABS and HIPS showed surface hardening and reduced creep under UV. PETG exhibited the most significant mechanical property changes near the surface (<10 µm depth), confirmed by spectroscopic evidence.