Enlightening Insights: Illuminating the Refractive Index of 3D Printing Resins
Board Location: #121
Discipline: Nanoscience or Materials Science
Subcategory: Materials Science
Session: 1
Curtis Jordan - Norfolk State University
Co-Author(s): Dr. Carl Bonner, Norfolk State University Center for Materials Research, Norfolk, VA; Bernard Boston, Norfolk State University Center for Materials Research, Norfolk, VA; Matthew Turner, Norfolk State University Center for Materials Research, Norfolk, VA
This research aims to obtain reliable and accessible refractive index data for transparent 3D printing photo-resins. The project involves determining the refractive index of specific photopolymers used in 3D printing, understanding the influence of the photopolymerization process on optical properties, assessing cure rate and exposure time for complete curing, determining the minimum achievable feature size, and establishing the change in refractive index and dispersion relation for each resin. The study investigates the refractive index of widely-used photosensitive resins, including ANYCUBIC Standard Resin + (Clear), ANYCUBIC Water-Wash Resin + (Clear), Siraya Tech Craft Creative Resin (Ultra Clear), and six custom resins. The refractive index characterization will be conducted throughout the entire visible spectrum (405-670 nm) for both s- and p-polarized light. By obtaining a deeper understanding of the refractive index characteristics, researchers can unlock new frontiers of innovation in 3D printing and broader optics applications. The research methods include sample preparation, prism coupling, Pulfrich refractometer measurements, film preparation, pattern generation, and refractive index calculations. The expected results include accurate refractive index values, dispersion analysis, polarization dependence examination, and insights into the influence of curing conditions on the refractive index. These findings will empower researchers to design and fabricate customized optical components with precise control over their optical properties, facilitating advancements in optics, photonics, imaging, and other related fields.
Funder Acknowledgement(s): Department of Energy, MSIPP grant DE-NA0003867
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Carl Bonner, cebonner@nsu.edu
Role: Data Collection, Fabrication, Data Analysis