Effect of Scouring Substrate Fabric on the Peel Strength of 3D-Printed Composite Fabrics

This study aims to evaluate the effects of scouring and repeated washing on the adhesion between substrate fabric and 3D printed filaments to enhance the adhesion of 3D-printed composite fabrics (3D-PCF). Results showed that the scouring process effectively improved adhesion by removing contaminants from the fabric and reorganizing the fiber structure. This effect was particularly pronounced in cotton fabrics, where thickness, weight, fabric density, and contact angle increased, resulting in a significant enhancement in adhesion. In contrast, hydrophobic PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) fabrics showed little change after scouring. Repeated washing caused a decline in adhesion due to the softening of the fabric and 3D-printed filaments. This was caused by friction and the action of detergents, leading to a rearrangement of the pore structure. As the number of washing cycles increased, the reduction in peel strength became more pronounced. These findings suggest that additional surface treatments or coating technologies are necessary to maintain adhesion in applications where washing durability is crucial. This research provides a fundamental basis for improving the performance of 3D-PCF by proposing practical guidelines for enhancing adhesion between substrate fabric and 3D printed filaments.