Comparative mechanical behavior of additively manufactured polymers for smart insole applications
1 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Centre of Mechanical Engineering Materials and Processes (CEMMPRE-ARISE), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3030-788, Portugal
2 Centre for the Study of Human Performance (CIPER), Centre of Investigation in Sports and Physical Activity (CIDAF), Faculty of Sports Sciences and Physical Education (FCDEF), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3040-248, Portugal
  • Volume
  • Citation
    Santos V, Valvez S, Pereira M, Gomes B, Neto M, et al. Comparative mechanical behavior of additively manufactured polymers for smart insole applications. Adv. Equip. 2025(2):0007, https://doi.org/10.55092/ae20250007. 
  • DOI
    10.55092/ae20250007
  • Copyright
    Copyright2025 by the authors. Published by ELSP.
Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM) has opened new possibilities to produce complex geometries with tailored mechanical properties, with Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) being a key technique for polymer-based components. This study, which introduces a comparative analysis of the compressive behaviour of Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) manufactured via FFF, focuses on their potential applications in smart insoles. Compression tests were conducted on 3D-printed specimens to evaluate their stress-strain responses and assess the impact of print orientation on mechanical performance. The results, revealing the high compressive strength and stiffness of PLA, and the superior elasticity and energy absorption of TPU, provide unique insights into material selection and process optimization for enhancing the mechanical performance of smart insoles.

Keywords

fused filament fabrication; polylactic acid; thermoplastic polyurethane; compression test; smart insoles

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