Beyond standard ABS: Recent advances in modified and composite filaments prepared for fused deposition modeling

Abstract

As a material extrusion 3D printing method, fused deposition modeling (FDM) has become a cornerstone of modern prototyping and manufacturing due to its design flexibility, rapid turnaround times, and cost-effectiveness. However, the standard acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) filament, while widely used, can limit applicability of FDM for advanced applications requiring superior mechanical properties, specialized functionalities, or compatibility with specific printing platforms. This review paper ventures beyond the limitations of standard ABS and explores the burgeoning field of modified and composite filaments for FDM. Modified filaments involve the strategic alteration of the ABS to enhance specific properties such as strength or heat resistance. Conversely, composite filaments integrate various materials including chopped fibers, nanoparticles, or conductive fillers into a polymer matrix to achieve a broader range of functionalities. This review meticulously scrutinizes recent research advancements in modified and composite filaments for FDM. We analyze the diverse strategies employed for material modification and incorporation, evaluating their impact on printability, mechanical properties, and the unlocking of novel functionalities for 3D-printed parts. By critically examining the research landscape, we identify the strengths, limitations, and potential future directions of these advanced filaments. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state-of-the-art in modified and composite filaments for FDM, highlighting their potential to propel 3D printing towards a new era of advanced manufacturing capabilities and emerging next-generation functional components.