Development of Filaments for 3D Printing from Poly(Lactic Acid) Polymeric Nanocomposites and Carbon Nanotubes

The aim of this study is to obtain poly(lactic acid) polymeric nanocomposites and carbon nanotubes for application in drone propellers produced through 3D printing. In this work, a filament based on poly(lactic acid)—PLA/functionalized carbon nanotube (CNT) composites was prepared for the fused deposition modeling (FDM) process. The effects of CNT content (0.2–1.0%), temperature variation, and extruder screw rotation variation were applied in the Design of Experiments (DOE) tool, where the main factors contributing to filament quality, focusing on mechanical strength, were identified. Through this tool, an optimum point for the material’s mechanical strength was reached, showing a value of 48.87 MPa, 43.17% above the initial value of 27.77 MPa. The response surface curve revealed a region where new filaments with similar mechanical strength values to those found in this work could be obtained. The results demonstrate that CNT content, extruder screw rotation, and extruder temperature directly influence filament quality. The data obtained from Thermogravimetry (TG) and Derivative Thermogravimetry (DTG) curves show that the addition of 0.6% CNT by weight does not significantly modify PLA degradation resistance, despite slight differences in temperatures. The main reason for these alterations is the dispersion of CNTs in the PLA matrix and CNT agglomeration. Through the demonstrated simulation, it is possible to confirm the application of the developed material in drone propeller manufacturing, facilitating access and providing new opportunities for users.