Undergraduate Research

The Shape Memory Property of 4D Printed Textiles: A Comparison Between Virgin and Recycled PLA

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Abstract

This study explored the shape memory property of 4D printed textiles fabricated with virgin and recycled polylactic acid (PLA). An experimental research design, consisting of 2 (material type) x 5 (repetition), was employed. An auxetic textile structure was selected for the sample fabrication with virgin and recycled PLA. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) test was performed, followed by the measurement of shape recovery ratio. The findings revealed that both virgin and recycled PLA exhibit excellent shape memory performances, making them ideal candidates for the smart wearable product development with 4D printing. The findings also demonstrated that the recycling process does not compromise the shape memory property of PLA, providing a significant promise of employing recycled PLA in the 4DP application. This study offers valuable insights for both academia and industry in advancing the development of 4D printed smart wearable products using both virgin and recycled PLA.

Keywords: 4D printing, PLA, recycling, thermal property, shape memory property

How to Cite:

Kabir, S., Li, Y. & Lee, Y., (2025) “The Shape Memory Property of 4D Printed Textiles: A Comparison Between Virgin and Recycled PLA”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21619