Laser Induced 3D Printed Graphene Enhanced Thermoplastic Polyurethane Structure for Improved Anisotropy and Photothermal and Electrothermal De-icing Performance

A laser induction process was applied to a previously developed FDM 3D-printed graphene enhanced thermoplastic polyurethane structure. Notably, the orientation of graphene flakes and the integrity of the double-layer structure were preserved during the decomposition of the polymer matrix, resulting in anisotropic electrical conductivity (RTP/RIP of 2.47×10^7) and thermal conductivity (TCIP/TCTP of 9.1). The laser treatment removed the polymer matrix and generated porous graphene flake micro/nanostructures on the surface led to significant improvement in surface hydrophobicity. Despite the defects introduced by the process, most of the mechanical properties were retained, with over 63.3% of tensile strength and 72.2% of elastic modulus preserved. A noticeable increase in the coefficient of friction (COF) of graphene enhanced TPU was observed, which was attributed to the synergistic effects of the low COF of the porous graphene flake layer and the high COF of the polymer residue. The excellent heat retention of the structure, ensured by the low thermal conductivity in the TP direction and the enhanced photothermal effect, was systematically evaluated. The photothermal de-icing performance demonstrated a nearly 20% reduction in ice melting time and electrothermal de-icing performance proved an effective and safe operation voltage of 20V, confirming its efficacy in practical applications.