PSI - Issue 64

Valentina Tomei et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 64 (2024) 901–907 Author name / Structural Integrity Procedia 00 (2019) 000 – 000

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The aging effect led to an increase in both the average pre-peak elastic modulus (by approximately 27%) and strength (by about 26%). Finally, concerning the strain measurements obtained using the embedded FBG sensor positioned at the center of the H_Fh(s)_dog-bone samples, the optical fiber slippage occurred for all samples at similar values of strain. In particular, it was noted that this slippage occurred before reaching the tensile strength of the samples (approximately 80% of the peak of normal stresses). This aspect necessitates further investigation in future studies, as it suggests that the current configuration of the optical fiber (aligned longitudinally along the sample) and the printing process for embedding the fiber optic may not enable strain measurement through the FBG sensor until the failure of the sample. In particular, this study has highlighted crucial aspects regarding the developed procedure for embedding FBG sensors within 3D printed components, rendering it suitable for both industrial processes and commercial applications. Possible developments resulting from this research could involve further optimizing the printing process and fiber optic placement to enhance strain measurement capabilities and address limitations observed in the current setup. Additionally, exploring alternative materials and coatings for the optical fiber could improve its performance and compatibility with 3D printing processes. In conclusion, this work analyzes the sensitivity of 3D-printed PLA elements to various parameters, including the printing process, aging effects, and the incorporation of fiber optics for health monitoring. Although the study specifically focuses on PLA, the results suggest that these aspects should be considered when extending the proposed methodology to other materials, such as concrete, clay, metal, and ceramic. However, specific concerns, particularly regarding the incorporation of fiber optics, will need to be addressed specifically for each material. Acknowledgements The research was funded by the Lazio Region as part of the Call “DTCTE1 – Fase II - Progetti RSI”, Det. G07413 of 16.06.2021, public notice of di LAZIO INNOVA, research project “H -S3D – Stampa 3D per Beni Culturali. Applicazioni di Recupero Strutturale e Monitoraggio di Elementi Architettonici e di Decoro”. The Araknia Labs Srl is gratefully acknowledged for the 3D-printing of the samples within the aforementioned research project. The Group of Metallurgy at the University of Cassino is gratefully acknowledged for their support in conducting some of the experimental tests discussed in the paper. References Amza, C. G., Zapciu, A., Baciu, F., Vasile, M. I., and Nicoara, A. I. (2021). “Accelerated aging effect on mechanical properties of common 3d‐ printing polymers.” Polymers , MDPI, 13(23), 4132. Fotia, A., Modafferi, A., Nunnari, A., and D’amico, S. (2021). “From UAV survey to 3D printing, geomatics techniques for the enhancement of small village Cultural Heritage.” WSEAS TRANSACTIONS ON ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT , 17, 479 – 489. Higueras, M., Calero, A. I., and Collado- Montero, F. J. (2021). “Digital 3D modeling using photogrammetry and 3D printing applied to the restoration of a Hispano- Roman architectural ornament.” Digital Applications in Archaeology and Cultural Heritage , 20, e00179. Monaldo, E., Ricci, M., and Marfia, S. (2023). “Mechanical properties of 3D printed polylactic acid elements: Experimental an d numerical insights.” Mechanics of Materials , 177, 104551. Tomei, V., Grande, E., Caponero, M. A., and Imbimbo, M. (2024). “3D -printing for the rehabilitation and health monitoring of structures with FBG: Experimental tests.” Construction and Building Materials , Elsevier Ltd, 416, 135067. Xu, J., Ding, L., and Love, P. E. D. (2017). “Digital reproduction of historical building ornamental components: From 3D scan ning to 3D printing.” Automation in Construction , 76, 85 – 96.