polymers

Article
Preparation of Hydrophobic Surface on PLA and ABS
by Fused Deposition Modeling
Huadong Yang * , Fengchao Ji, Zhen Li and Shuai Tao
Department of Mechanical Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Baoding 071003, China;
jfc15735182916@163.com (F.J.); wllizhen@163.com (Z.L.); t746434208@163.com (S.T.)
* Correspondence: yanghd@ncepu.edu.cn; Tel.: +86-312-752-5433




Received: 9 June 2020; Accepted: 7 July 2020; Published: 12 July 2020


Abstract: In the fields of agriculture, medical treatment, food, and packaging, polymers are required
to have the characteristics of self-cleaning, anti-icing, and anti-corrosion. The traditional preparation
method of hydrophobic coatings is costly and the process is complex, which has special requirements
on the surface of the part. In this study, fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing technology
with design and processing flexibility was applied to the preparation of hydrophobic coatings on
polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) parts, and the relationship between
the printing process parameters and the surface roughness and wettability of the printed test parts
was discussed. The experimental results show that the layer thickness and filling method have a
significant effect on the surface roughness of the 3D-printed parts, while the printing speed has no
effect on the surface roughness. The orthogonal experiment analysis method was used to perform the
wettability experiment analysis, and the optimal preparation process parameters were found to be a
layer thickness of 0.25 mm, the Grid filling method, and a printing speed of 150 mm/s.

Keywords: hydrophobic surface; fused deposition modeling; surface roughness; orthogonal experiment

1. Introduction
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a polymer obtained by polymerization of lactic acid as the main raw
material. Lactic acid is derived from raw materials such as corn and cassava. It has sufficient sources
and is renewable. The production process of polylactic acid is pollution-free, and the product can be
biodegraded to achieve circulation in nature, so it is an ideal green polymer material. Acrylonitrile
butadiene styrene (ABS) is a terpolymer of acrylonitrile (A), butadiene (B), and styrene (S). The relative
content of the three monomers can be arbitrarily changed to make various resins. ABS has the common
properties of three components: A makes it resistant to chemical corrosion and heat, and has a certain
surface hardness; B makes it have high elasticity and toughness; S makes it have the characteristics
of thermoplastic molding and improves electrical properties. Therefore, ABS is a material with easy
access to raw materials, good comprehensive performance, low price, and a wide range of uses.
ABS has been widely used in manufacturing industries such as the machinery, electrical, textile,
automobile, aircraft, ship, and chemical industries. Polylactic acid (PLA) is widely used in agriculture,
forestry, medical, and food industries, as well as packaging and other fields. Unique functions such
as cleaning, anti-icing, anti-corrosion, water-reducing oil separation, liquid transport, and water
collection [1–6] are needed in these fields. In daily life, the surfaces of automobiles, home appliances,
and packaging with anti-fouling properties, as well as kitchen appliances with anti-fouling properties,
are expected. For wind turbines and the power grid, at low temperatures, ice coating will occur on the
surface of transmission lines, insulators, and wind turbines, which affect their performance. Therefore,
the ability to resist ice coating is required in these fields [7]. The realization of these functions can be
solved by constructing a hydrophobic layer, as wettability is a dominant factor for ice formation on a

Polymers 2020, 12, 1539; doi:10.3390/polym12071539 www.mdpi.com/journal/polymers

Polymers 2020, 12, 1539 2 of 14

specific surface. Hydrophobic surfaces can tend to repel water [8]; however, hydrophilic surfaces have
more affinity to water [9]. These functions can be obtained by coating a hydrophobic film on PLA and
ABS surfaces.
Hydrophobic surfaces can be fabricated by modifying low-surface-energy materials on rough surfaces
or constructing micro-nano rough structures on surfaces with low surface energy [10–19]. Many methods
have been developed for the preparation of hydrophobic coatings, such as electrochemical
deposition, photolithography, chemical etching, phase separation, spraying, sol–gel, self-assembly,
and electro-spinning. However, these preparation methods of hydrophobic surfaces are complicated
and costly.
3D printing is an emerging additive manufacturing technology that is developing rapidly [20],
and has been widely used in rapid prototyping and customized products. Among the 3D printers
on the market, fused deposition modeling (FDM) printers are popular because of their open source
and simple system configuration, which have been widely used in the polymers field. In addition,
a variety of materials can be applied for FDM printing, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
(ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), high-density polystyrene (HIPS),
and polyamide (nylon) [21–25]. Studies have shown that the surface properties of parts affect their
wettability, and the surface quality is affected by process parameters of FDM 3D-printed parts [26–32].
Jiang [33] analyzed the FDM forming process by a numerical model and experiment, and obtained the
mechanism of dimensional error, and the function of specific surface accuracy error was constructed.
Xue [34] analyzed the effect of layer thickness on forming quality. The results showed that if the layer
thickness was smaller, excellent forming quality will be obtained; however, it will reduce the printing
speed. Feng [35] studied the problems of nozzle clogging and substrate deformation that affected
the dimensional accuracy during the 3D printing. The results show that the selection of high-quality
materials and the use of optimized process parameters have a significant effect.
Based on the construction of the process parameters and objective function of fused deposition
modeling, the application of artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms for process optimization
of fused deposition modeling was discussed. According to the idea of converting the multi-objective
optimization problem into the single-objective, the optimal single-objective was decomposed and
the precision and warpage of the part under the optimal condition were obtained [36]. Based on
the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology, the influence of building orientation on surface
roughness and supporting area is studied. The surface roughness of parts made by polylactic acid
(PLA) at different building orientations is tested in experiments, and combined with the theoretical
and empirical formula, a novel model for surface roughness prediction is established, which conforms
to the actual situation in manufacturing [37].
In the current research, much research has been implemented to analyze the effect of the layer
thickness and building orientation on the forming quality, but the research on the influence of the
filling method on surface quality and mechanical properties is not enough, and further discussion is
needed. The preparation of coatings on the surface of printed parts also requires in-depth research to
explore the relationship between process parameters and surface wettability.
In this paper, a commercial FDM 3D printer was applied to print parts by using PLA and ABS
filaments. By modifying the printing process parameters, multiple sets of test pieces were prepared,
and the relationship between the process parameters and surface roughness of the test pieces was
explored. Then, the preparation method of hydrophobic coatings on FDM test pieces was studied.
Finally, the corresponding relationship between process parameters and surface hydrophobic properties
was discussed. The surface quality and the surface roughness were observed and measured by using
a light-cut microscope, and the effect of different printing parameters on the surface quality of the
tested part was analyzed and optimized. Then, hydrophobic GF-2200 self-drying nano-ceramic
fluorine paint was used to achieve a nano-structured hydrophobic coating surface. The contact angle
measuring instrument was used to measure the static contact angle of the surface coating, and the
wettability changes of the 3D-printed parts under different process parameters were evaluated and
 Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 14

Polymers
surface.2020,
The 12,contact
1539
angle measuring instrument was used to measure the static contact angle 3ofofthe
14

surface coating, and the wettability changes of the 3D-printed parts under different process
parameters
analyzed. Thewere
effectevaluated
of differentand analyzed.
process The on
parameters effect of different properties
the hydrophobic process parameters on on
of the coatings the
hydrophobic properties of the
the 3D-printed part was studied. coatings on the 3D-printed part was studied.

2.2.Materials
Materialsand
andMethods
Methods

2.1.Sample
2.1. SamplePreparation
Preparation
Inthis
In thisexperiment,
experiment, tested
tested parts
parts werewere manufactured
manufactured by anby FDM an printer
FDM printer (Liuyunkeji,
(Liuyunkeji, Taian,
Taian, China),
China),iswhich
which shownis in shown
Figurein Figure
1a. The 1a.process
The process principle
principle of theof the
FDM FDM printer
printer is is shownininFigure
shown Figure1b.1b.
The thermoplastic filament with a diameter of 1.75 mm is fed into the extrusion
The thermoplastic filament with a diameter of 1.75 mm is fed into the extrusion nozzle through the nozzle through the
filamentfeeding
filament feedingroller.
roller. The
Thethermoplastic
thermoplastic filament
filamentisisheated
heatedtotothe themelting
meltingpoint.
point.The
Thehot,
hot,liquid
liquid
plasticemerges
plastic emergesthrough
throughaanozzle
nozzleto tocreate
createaathin,
thin,single
singlelayer
layeralong
alongthe theX-X-and
andY-axes
Y-axeson onthethebuild
build
platform. The
platform. Thelayer
layercools
coolsandandhardens
hardensquickly.
quickly.As Aseach
eachlayer
layerisiscompleted,
completed,the theplatform
platformisislowered
lowered
andadditional
and additionalmolten
moltenplastic
plasticisisdeposited,
deposited,growing
growingthe thepart
partvertically
vertically(along
(alongthe
theZ-axis).
Z-axis).
Inorder
In ordertotoprepare
preparethe thehydrophobic
hydrophobicsurface,surface,aathree-dimensional
three-dimensionalgrid-likegrid-likesolid
solidmodel
modelwas was
designedby
designed byPro/E
Pro/Esoftware
softwarewhich
whichisisshown
shownininFigure
Figure2.2.The
Thesample
samplesize sizewas
was3030mmmm××30 30mm
mm××33mm, mm,
thesize
the sizeofofthe
theholes
holeswaswas1.51.5mm
mm××1.5 1.5mm,
mm,and andthethedistance
distancebetween
betweenthe theholes
holeswas
was1.51.5mm.
mm.Simplify3D
Simplify3D
softwarewas
software wasused
usedto toedit
editparameters
parametersand andslice
slicethe
thesolid
solidmodel
modelin inthe
theSTLSTLfile,
file,which
whichwaswasimported
imported
intoan
into anFDM
FDMprinter.
printer. PLA
PLA andand ABSABS material
material (detailed
(detailed specifications
specifications are are shown
shown in in Tables
Tables 11 and
and 2)2)
wereapplied
were appliedtotoprint
printaatest
testpart
partininorder
orderto toevaluate
evaluatethetheeffect
effectofofmaterials
materialson onsurface
surfaceroughness
roughnessand and
wettability. In
wettability. In this
this experiment,
experiment, the the layer
layer thickness
thickness waswas setset as
as0.15,
0.15,0.2,
0.2,and
and0.25
0.25mm,
mm,thetheprinting
printing
speedwas
speed waschosen
chosenas as100
100and
and150150mm/s,
mm/s,respectively,
respectively,and andthe thefilling
fillingmethods
methodsare areshown
shownin inFigure
Figure3, 3,
suchasas
such Rectilinear,
Rectilinear, Grid,
Grid, Wiggle,
Wiggle, and Honeycomb.
and Honeycomb. For other For othervariables,
process process the variables, the default
default parameters
parameters
were chosen.were chosen.
In order In order
to verify the to verify
effect effect of the
of the printing printing
process process on
parameters parameters
the surface onroughness,
the surface
roughness,
72 72 PLAand
PLA test pieces test72
pieces
ABSand test72 ABS were
pieces test pieces
printedwereby printed by considering
considering the three
the three factors of factors
printing of
printing speed, layer thickness,
speed, layer thickness, and filling mode. and filling mode.

Filament

Rolle

Nozzle
Controller
X-Y
Part

(a) (b)
Figure1.1.Description
Figure Descriptionof
ofFDM
FDMprinter:
printer:(a)
(a)The
Theprinter
printerapplied
appliedin
inthis
thispaper;
paper;(b)
(b)the
theschematic
schematicdiagram
diagram
ofofthe
theFDM
FDMprocess
processprinciple.
principle.
Polymers 2020, 12,
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x FOR PEER REVIEW 44 of
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Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 14

Figure 2. The geometry of samples.

Figure 2. The geometry of samples.
Table 1. Characteristics of polylactic acid (PLA) printing materials.
Table 1. Characteristics of polylactic acid (PLA) printing materials.
Table 1. Characteristics of polylactic acid (PLA) printing materials.
Brand JGAURORA Color Red
Brand
Brand JGAURORA
JGAURORA Color
Color Red
Red
Material PLA Melting Point 190 °C◦C
Material
Material PLA
PLA Melting
Melting Point
Point 190190°C
Diameter 1.75 mm Print Temperature 190–220 °C
◦C
Diameter
Diameter 1.75
1.75 mm
mm Print
Print Temperature
Temperature 190–220°C
190–220
Density
Density 1.25
1.25 g/cm
3
g/cm33 Flexural modulus
Flexural modulus ≥65
≥65MpaMpa
WaterDensity
Water Absorption
Absorption
1.25 g/cm
0.5%
0.5%
Flexural
Tensile modulus
Strength
Tensile Strength
≥65
≥50 Mpa
≥50MpaMpa
Water
Hot
Hot Bed Absorption
BedTemperature
Temperature 0.5%◦°C
50–60
50–60 C Tensile Strength
Flow
Flow Rate
Rate ≥50
5–7
5–7 Mpa
g/10
g/10 min
min
Hot Bed Temperature 50–60 °C Flow Rate 5–7 g/10 min
Table 2.
Table 2. Characteristics of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
styrene (ABS)
(ABS) printing
printing materials.
materials.
Table 2. Characteristics of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) printing materials.
Brand
Brand JGAURORA
JGAURORA Color
Color Red
Red
Brand
Material JGAURORA
ABS Color
Melting Point Red
220
Material ABS Melting Point 220°C
◦C
Material
Diameter
Diameter
ABS
1.75
1.75 mm
Melting
Print Point
Temperature
Print Temperature
220
220–250°C
220–250°C◦C
Diameter
Density
Density 1.75g/cm
1.04
1.04 mm33
g/cm Print Temperature
Flexural
Flexural modulus
modulus 220–250
≥60Mpa
≥60 °C
Mpa
Water Density
WaterAbsorption
Absorption 1.041%g/cm3
1% Flexural modulus
Tensile Strength
Tensile Strength ≥60 Mpa
≥43
≥43 MpaMpa
Hot Bed Temperature 50–60 ◦C Flow Rate 2–4 g/10 min
Water Absorption
Hot Bed Temperature 1% °C
50–60 Tensile
FlowStrength
Rate ≥43 Mpa
2–4 g/10 min
Hot Bed Temperature 50–60 °C Flow Rate 2–4 g/10 min

(a) Rectilinear (b) Grid (c) Wiggle (d) Fast honeycomb

(a) Rectilinear (b) Grid (c) Wiggle (d) Fast honeycomb
Figure 3.
Figure 3. Filling method.
Figure 3. Filling method.
2.2. The Measurement
2.2. The Measurement Method Method of of Surface
Surface Roughness
Roughness
2.2. The Measurement Method of Surface Roughness
The
The surface
surface roughness
roughness of of the
the samples
samples that were manufactured
that were manufactured by the FDM
by the FDM printer
printer with
with different
different
process
processTheparameters
surface roughness
parameters is of the samples
is characterized
characterized by that were manufactured
by measuring
measuring the
the micro-roughnessby the FDM
micro-roughness Rz printer
Rz with aawith
with different
light-section
light-section
process
microscope. parameters
The is
detailed characterized
measurement by
microscope. The detailed measurement steps are as follows: measuring
steps are as the
follows: micro-roughness Rz with a light-section
microscope.
(1) A 77 ××The
(1) A lensdetailed
lens was measurement
was selected
selected to installsteps
toinstall ononthe are
the as follows:and
microscope,
microscope, andthe thebeam
beam waswasfocused
focused ononthethe
object to
object
be (1)
measuredA 7 × lens
by was
coarsely selected to
adjusting install
the on
hand the microscope,
wheel. When a and
clear the beam
slit
to be measured by coarsely adjusting the hand wheel. When a clear slit image appears in the eyepiece, image was focused
appears in on
the the object
eyepiece,
to
thebecoarse
the measured
coarse adjustment
adjustmentby coarselyhandadjusting
hand wheel
wheel shouldthe hand
should be wheel.
be fixed
fixed and When
and theafine
the clearadjustment
fine slit image appears
adjustment hand in theshould
hand wheel
wheel eyepiece,
should be
be
the coarse
applied to adjustment
adjust the hand
sharpness wheel
of
applied to adjust the sharpness of the slit image.theshould
slit be
image. fixed and the fine adjustment hand wheel should be
applied
(2) to adjust
(2) Turn
Turn the
the sidethe sharpness
side of theso
micro-eyepiece
micro-eyepiece slitthe
so image.
the crosshairs
crosshairs are are inin the
the horizontal
horizontal position,
position, and
and then
then adjust
adjust
the (2) Turn
horizontal the side
lines ofmicro-eyepiece
the crosshairs so
to the
be crosshairs
tangent to are
the in the
highest horizontal
the horizontal lines of the crosshairs to be tangent to the highest point of the clear edge of thepoint of position,
the clear and
edge then adjust
of slit,
the slit,
and
the
thenhorizontal
and then lines
the number
the number onofthe the
on crosshairs
the eyepiece
eyepiece toreticle
reticle be tangent toasthe
is recorded
is recorded 𝑎 highest
.asThen, point make
a1 . Then,
make of the
the clear
the edge
horizontal
horizontal lineofof
the
line
theslit,
ofand
the
reticle
then
reticlethe number on the eyepiece reticle is recorded as 𝑎 . Then, make
tangent to the lowest point of the clear edge of the slit, and the number on the eyepiece reticle is
tangent to the lowest point of the clear edge of the slit, and the the
numberhorizontal
on the line of
eyepiece the reticle
reticle is
tangent
recordedtoas
recorded asthe
a𝑎2 . .lowest point of the clear edge of the slit, and the number on the eyepiece reticle is
recorded as 𝑎 . step (2) 5 times so the number of the five highest peaks and the five lowest valleys of
(3) Repeat
(3) Repeat
the measured profile step (2)can 5 be
times so the number
obtained. Then, theofaverage
the fivevalue
highest canpeaks and the by
be calculated fiveEquation
lowest valleys of
(1). Thus,
the
the measured profile can
surface roughness of be
theobtained.
tested parts Then,canthe
beaverage
obtainedvalue can be calculated
by Equation (2). by Equation (1). Thus,
the surface roughness of the tested parts can be obtained by Equation (2).
Polymers 2020, 12, 1539 5 of 14

(3) Repeat step (2) 5 times so the number of the five highest peaks and the five lowest valleys of
the measured profile can be obtained. Then, the average value can be calculated by Equation (1). Thus,
the surface roughness of the tested parts can be obtained by Equation (2).
Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 5 of 14
(a1 + a3 + · · · + a9 ) − (a2 + a4 + · · · + a10 )
aaverage = (1)
𝑎 + 𝑎 + ⋯ + 𝑎 5− 𝑎 + 𝑎 + ⋯ + 𝑎
𝑎 = (1)
aaverage5
RZ = (2)
𝑎 2V
𝑅 = (2)
(4) Determination of V value. The surface roughness2𝑉 of the scale can be measured by using a 0.01
mm standard roughness of
(4) Determination scale. The values of the five peaks and five valleys measured in steps (1), (2),
V value
and (3)The
are surface
shown in Table 3. of the scale can be measured by using a 0.01 mm standard roughness
roughness
scale. The values of the five peaks and five valleys measured in steps (1), (2), and (3) are shown in
Table 3. Table 3. Measurement of light-section microscope (unit: mm).

a1 a2 a a4 a5 a6 a7 a8 a a10
Table 33. Measurement of light-section microscope (unit: mm) 9
3.8 3.68 3.88 3.74 3.85 3.7 3.9 3.78 3.85 3.75
𝐚𝟏 𝐚𝟐 𝐚𝟑 𝐚𝟒 𝐚𝟓 𝐚𝟔 𝐚𝟕 𝐚𝟖 𝐚𝟗 𝐚𝟏𝟎
3.8 3.68 3.88 3.74 3.85 3.7 3.9 3.78 3.85 3.75
According to the above equation, the values of a and Rz can be calculated. As the Rz of the
standard roughness
According scaleabove
to the is 0.01
equation, V value
mm, thethe values(6.3)
of acan
andbeRz
computed by the following
can be calculated. As the formula.
Rz of the
standard roughness scale is 0.01 mm, the V value (6.3) can be computed by the following formula.
1.26
0.01 = 1.26
0.012V=
2𝑉
According to the above methods and steps, the values of the tested parts are measured in sequence,
According to the above methods and steps, the values of the tested parts are measured in
and the roughness values Rz can be calculated.
sequence, and the roughness values Rz can be calculated.
2.3. Hydrophobic Surfaces Preparation
2.3. Hydrophobic Surfaces Preparation
A low-cost GF-2200 hydrophobic coating (GUANGFU, Guangzhou, China), which is a
A low-cost GF-2200 hydrophobic coating (GUANGFU, Guangzhou, China), which is a room-
room-temperature
temperature curable curable single-component
single-component nano-ceramic
nano-ceramic resin
resin with with a maximum
a maximum hydrophobic
hydrophobic angle of
angle of 110 ◦ , was applied in the experiment. The preparation of hydrophobic surfaces on FDM tested
110°, was applied in the experiment. The preparation of hydrophobic surfaces on FDM tested parts
parts is shown in
is shown in Figure 4. Figure 4.
TheThesurface
surfaceofoftested
testedparts
partswas
wascleaned
cleaned to
to remove dust, oil,
remove dust, oil, and
andother
othercontaminants
contaminantsfrom
fromthethe
surface,
surface,and andthenthendried.
dried. After
After completely
completely drying, the GF-2200
drying, the GF-2200 self-drying
self-dryingnano-ceramic
nano-ceramicfluorine
fluorine
coating
coating was dipped with 3D-printed parts for 1 min and was then dried at room temperature for
was dipped with 3D-printed parts for 1 min and was then dried at room temperature for 10
10 h.
The
h. dried
The drieddip-coated 3D-printed
dip-coated 3D-printed parts were
parts wereimmersed
immersedininethanol
ethanol and cleaned
cleanedusing
usingan
anultrasonic
ultrasonic
cleaner
cleaner forfor
1010min.
min.

Figure4.4.Schematic
Figure Schematic image of samples
samplespreparation.
preparation.

2.4. Measurement
2.4. MeasurementofofCoating
CoatingWettability
WettabilityofofTested
TestedParts
Parts
Wettability
Wettabilityrefers to to
refers thethe
conversion
conversionof aofsolid
a solidinterface from
interface a solid–gas
from interface
a solid–gas to a to
interface solid–liquid
a solid–
interface
liquid interface when a liquid is in contact with a solid surface, which reflects the ability of theliquid
when a liquid is in contact with a solid surface, which reflects the ability of the liquidto
expand on the
to expand onsolid surface.
the solid The degree
surface. of wetting
The degree is expressed
of wetting by theby
is expressed contact angle, angle,
the contact whichwhichis defined
is
asdefined
the angle between
as the the tangent
angle between at the gas–liquid
the tangent interface
at the gas–liquid and and
interface the solid–liquid boundary
the solid–liquid boundary at at
the
gas–liquid–solid three-phase intersection, which is shown in Figure 5. When the droplet
the gas–liquid–solid three-phase intersection, which is shown in Figure 5. When the droplet is stable is stable on the
solid
on surface,
the solidthe tension
surface, theat tension
the gas–solid,
at the gas–liquid, and solid–liquid
gas–solid, gas–liquid, interfaces reaches
and solid–liquid interfaces equilibrium.
reaches
equilibrium.
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Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 14

Figure 5.
Figure 5. Schematic diagram of contact angle.

Regarding
Regarding the
the theoretical model
Figure
theoretical of
of contact
5. Schematic
model angle, Young
contactdiagram proposed
of contact
Young angle. Young’s
proposed Young’sequation
equationin
in1805
1805[25]:
[25]:
𝛾 angle,
γLG cosθ
Regarding the theoretical model of contact 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃
= γSG=−𝛾 γ −proposed
Young 𝛾 Young’s equation in 1805 [25]:
SL
where 𝛾 , 𝛾 , 𝛾 represent the surface 𝛾tension 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 =ofof 𝛾 the− 𝛾solid–gas, solid–liquid, and gas–liquid
where γLGrespectively.
interface, , γSG , γSL represent the surface
𝜃 is the balanced tension
contact angle, the solid–gas,
or the intrinsic solid–liquid,
contact angle and of thegas–liquid
material.
where 𝛾
interface, , 𝛾 , 𝛾
respectively. θ
represent is the
the balanced
surface contact
tension angle,
of or
the the intrinsic
solid–gas,
Young’s equation is only applicable to ideal smooth surfaces, and the accuracy of determining contact
solid–liquid,angle of
and the material.
gas–liquid the
interface,
Young’s respectively.
equation is 𝜃
only is the balanced
applicable to contact
ideal angle,
smooth or the
surfaces, intrinsic
and
wettability of rough surfaces in practice is reduced. In 1936, Wenzel proposed the effect of surface the contact
accuracyangleof of the material.
determining the
Young’s
wettability
roughness equation
on theiswettability
of rough only applicable
surfaces inthe
of to ideal
practice
surface, smooth
is reduced.
and surfaces,
In 1936,
modified and
Wenzel
Young’s the accuracy
proposed
equation [38]:of
thedetermining the
effect of surface
wettability
roughnessof onrough surfaces in
the wettability of practice
the surface, is reduced.
and modifiedIn 1936, Wenzel
Young’s proposed
equation [38]:the effect of surface
roughness on the wettability of the surface, and modified 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = 𝑟𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 Young’s equation [38]:
where 𝑟 is the surface roughness and 𝜃 is𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 cosθ w = rcosθ
the contact angle of the rough surface in the Wenzel
= 𝑟𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃
state. The Wenzel equation is only applicable to the thermodynamic equilibrium and stable state, but
where𝑟r is
where
due to the is the
the surface
unevensurface roughness
roughness
surface, andθw
and
the expansion 𝜃 is isthe contact
of the
the contact
angle
liquid on angleof the rough
of the
the surface rough surface in the
needs surface
Wenzel
in the
to overcome aWenzel
state.
series of
The Wenzel
state. The Wenzel equation is only applicable to thetothermodynamic equilibrium and stable state, state,
but due to
potential barriersequation
caused by is only applicable
unevenness. Whenthe thethermodynamic
vibrational energy equilibrium and stable
of the droplet is less thanbut this
the
due uneven
to the surface,
uneven the
surface, expansion
the of
expansion the liquid
of the on the
liquid surface
on the needs
surface to overcome
needs to a series
overcome of
a potential
series of
potential barrier, the droplet cannot reach the equilibrium state required by the Wenzel equation and
barriers barriers
potential caused by unevenness.
caused by When the
unevenness. Whenvibrational
the energy of
vibrational the droplet
energy of the is less than
droplet is thisthan
less potential
this
may be out of some metastable equilibrium state. In 1944, Cassie and Baxter [39] expanded the
barrier, the
potential droplet cannot reach thereachequilibrium state required
state by the Wenzel equation and may be out
Wenzel barrier,
model, the anddroplet
it was cannot
proposed that thea equilibrium
rough and uneven required by the
solid surface Wenzel
can be equation
imaginedand as a
of
may some metastable
be out plane.of some equilibrium
metastable state. In
equilibrium 1944, Cassie and
state. Inis 1944, Baxter [39]
Cassieofand expanded the Wenzel model,
composite Assuming that the solid surface composed twoBaxter [39] expanded
substances, the
their intrinsic
and it was
Wenzel model, proposed
and it that
was aproposed
rough and uneven
that a rough solid
and surface
uneven can be imagined
solid surface as be
can a composite
imagined plane.
as a
contact angles are denoted by 𝜃 and 𝜃 , respectively. The fractions of surface area occupied per unit
Assuming
composite that the solid surface is composed of two substances, their intrinsic contact angles are
area are 𝑓plane. and 𝑓 Assuming that the
, respectively. 𝜃 solid
is thesurface
intrinsic is contact
composed angle of of
twothesubstances,
surface. Thetheir intrinsic
Cassie–Baxter
denoted
contact by θare
angles 1 and θ2 , respectively.
denoted by 𝜃 and The
𝜃 , fractions of surface
respectively. The area occupied
fractions of surface perarea
unitoccupied
area are perf1 and
unitf2 ,
model was established as shown in Figure 6b.
respectively.
area are 𝑓 and θCB𝑓 is the intrinsic contact
, respectively. 𝜃 is the angle of the surface.
intrinsic The Cassie–Baxter
contact angle of the surface. model
The was established
Cassie–Baxter
as shown in Figure 6b.
model was established as shown in Figure 6b.

θ°
θ°
(a) Wenzel (b) Cassie–Baxter

(a) Wenzel Figure 6. Wenzel model and Cassie model.

(b) Cassie–Baxter
Figure
Figure6.6.Wenzel
Wenzelmodel
modeland
andCassie
Cassiemodel.
model.
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = 𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 + 𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃
The wettability of the samples is characterized
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = 𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 by the + value
𝑓 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃of contact angle. In this experiment,
the images of a water droplet on differentcosθCB =positions
f1 cosθ1 +off2samples
cosθ2 can be obtained by a high-speed
The wettability
camera of the samples is characterized byisthe value of contact angle.
TheIncontact
this experiment,
The(Qianyanlang 2F04,
wettability of the Hefei,
samples isChina), which
characterized shown
by the valueinofFigure
contact7.angle. angle was
In this experiment,
the images
measured of a water droplet on different positions of samples can be obtained by a high-speed
the images based on the
of a water images
droplet (in bmp positions
on different or JPG format) captured
of samples can befrom the camera
obtained by contactcamera
by a high-speed angle
camera (Qianyanlang
measurement 2F04,
software, Hefei,
which is China),
shown in which8. is
Figure shownmeasurements
Multiple in Figure 7. The are contact angle
averaged to was
eliminate
(Qianyanlang 2F04, Hefei, China), which is shown in Figure 7. The contact angle was measured based
measured basederrors.
measurement on the images (in bmp or JPG format) captured from the camera by contact angle
on the images (in bmp or JPG format) captured from the camera by contact angle measurement software,
measurement software, which is shown in Figure 8. Multiple measurements are averaged to eliminate
which is shown in Figure 8. Multiple measurements are averaged to eliminate measurement errors.
measurement errors.
Polymers 2020, 12, 1539 7 of 14
Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 14
Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 14

(a)
(a) (b)
(b)
Figure
Figure 7. 7.The
Theimages
The imagesof
images ofaawater
of water droplet
water droplet on
droplet on different
different positions
positionsofof(a)
(a)PLA
PLAsamples without
samples coating,
without
without coating,
coating,
and
and (b)(b) ABSsamples
ABS sampleswithout
withoutcoating.
coating.

(a) (b)
(a) (b)
Figure
Figure 8.8.Measurement
Measurementof
ofcontact
contact angle.
angle. (a)
(a) Manual
Manualcontour
contourextraction;
extraction;(b)(b)
measured contact
measured angle.
contact angle.
Figure 8. Measurement of contact angle. (a) Manual contour extraction; (b) measured contact angle.
3. 3.
Results
ResultsandandDiscussion
Discussion
3. Results and Discussion
3.1. The
3.1. TheEffect
EffectofofProcess
ProcessParameters
Parameters on
on Surface Roughness
Surface Roughness
3.1. The
ManyEffect
Many of Process
studies
studies have
haveParameters
shown
shown that
thatonwettability
Surface Roughness
wettability hasan
has animportant
importantrelationship
relationship with
with surface
surface roughness,
roughness,
and the
andMany surface
the quality
surface
studies ofshown
quality
have FDM-printed
of FDM-printed partsparts
that wettability is related to process
hasisanrelated
important parameters
to process and
withmaterials.
parameters
relationship Therefore,
and materials.
surface roughness,
this
and experiment
Therefore,
the surface isquality
first aimed
this experiment at the
ofisFDM-printed
first preparation
aimed at the
parts of
is tested
preparation
relatedofparts according
tested to the following
parts according
to process parameters to the process
andfollowing
materials.
process
parameters: parameters:
Two Two
materials materials
(PLA and (PLA
ABS),and
threeABS),
layerthree layer
thicknesses thicknesses
(0.15, (0.15,
0.20, and
Therefore, this experiment is first aimed at the preparation of tested parts according to the following 0.20,
0.25 and
mm), 0.25 mm),
four filling
four
methods filling methods
(Rectilinear (Rectilinear
R, Grid G, R, Grid
Wiggle G,
W, Wiggle
and W, and
Honeycomb Honeycomb
H), and H),
two and
process parameters: Two materials (PLA and ABS), three layer thicknesses (0.15, 0.20, and 0.25 mm), two
printing printing
speeds speeds
(100 and
150 (100 and 150 mm/s), as shown in Table 4. If three test pieces were printed for each parameter
fourmm/s), as shown(Rectilinear
filling methods in Table 4. R,IfGrid
threeG,test pieces
Wiggle W,were
and printed
Honeycomb for each parameter
H), and combination,
two printing speeds
combination,
a(100
total of 72 PLA a total
and of 72
72 PLA
ABS and 72
tested ABSneeded
parts tested parts
to be needed to be
fabricated fabricated
for surface for surfacemeasurement
roughness roughness
and 150 mm/s), as shown in Table 4. If three test pieces were printed for each parameter
measurement
before before coating preparation.
coatingapreparation.
combination, total of 72 PLA and 72 ABS tested parts needed to be fabricated for surface roughness
measurement before coating Table preparation.
4. Surface roughness of PLA and ABS tested parts.

Process
Table Parameters
4. Surface Surface
roughness of PLA andRoughness
ABS testedRz (μm)
parts.
No. LT(mm) FM PS(mm/s) PLA ABS
1 Process
0.15 Parameters
R 100 Surface
74.2 Roughness Rz (μm)
75.3
No.
2 LT(mm)
0.15 FM
G PS(mm/s)
100 PLA
85.3 ABS
82.3
13 0.15
0.15 R
W 100
100 74.2
76.4 75.3
77.3
24 0.15
0.15 G
F 100
100 85.3
77.3 82.3
78.1
35 0.15
0.20 WR 100
100 76.4
75.3 77.3
76.4
46 0.15
0.20 F
G 100
100 77.3
87.1 78.1
85.6
57 0.20
0.20 R
W 100
100 75.3
79.0 76.4
78.2
68 0.20
0.20 F
G 100
100 79.6
87.1 80.2
85.6
7 0.20 W 100 79.0 78.2
8 0.20 F 100 79.6 80.2
Polymers 2020, 12, 1539 8 of 14

Table 4. Surface roughness of PLA and ABS tested parts.

Process Parameters Surface Roughness Rz (µm)

No. LT(mm) FM PS(mm/s) PLA ABS
1 0.15 R 100 74.2 75.3
2 0.15 G 100 85.3 82.3
3 0.15 W 100 76.4 77.3
Polymers 2020, 12,4x FOR PEER REVIEW
0.15 F 100 77.3 78.1 8 of 14
5 0.20 R 100 75.3 76.4
6 9 0.25
0.20 R G 100 100 78.4 87.1 79.0 85.6
7 10 0.20
0.25 G W 100 100 90.1 79.0 87.4 78.2
8 0.20 F 100 79.6 80.2
11 0.25 W 100 81.2 81.0
9 0.25 R 100 78.4 79.0
10 12 0.25
0.25 F G 100 100 82.4 90.1 82.8 87.4
11 13 0.15
0.25 R W 150 100 75.8 81.2 77.0 81.0
12 14 0.15
0.25 G F 150 100 86.1 82.4 84.1 82.8
13 15 0.15
0.15 W R 150 150 77.0 75.8 78.8 77.0
14 0.15 G 150 86.1 84.1
16 0.15 F 150 78.2 79.2
15 0.15 W 150 77.0 78.8
16 17 0.20
0.15 R F 150 150 76.4 78.2 77.9 79.2
17 18 0.20
0.20 G R 150 150 88.8 76.4 86.4 77.9
18 19 0.20
0.20 W G 150 150 79.2 88.8 81.0 86.4
19 20 0.20
0.20 F W 150 150 80.1 79.2 81.3 81.0
20 0.20 F 150 80.1 81.3
21 0.25 R 150 79.2 79.8
21 0.25 R 150 79.2 79.8
22 22 0.25
0.25 G G 150 150 91.3 91.3 88.8 88.8
23 23 0.25
0.25 W W 150 150 82.7 82.7 83.2 83.2
24 24 0.25
0.25 F F 150 150 84.2 84.2 83.6 83.6

Existing researchhas
Existing research hasfound
foundthat thatthe
the surface
surface roughness
roughness of the
of the substrate
substrate has ahas a very
very significant
significant effect
effect on the performance of the hydrophobic coating. It can be found from Figure
on the performance of the hydrophobic coating. It can be found from Figures 9 and 10 that the surface 9 and Figure 10
that the surface roughness of 3D-printed parts is more sensitive to the filling
roughness of 3D-printed parts is more sensitive to the filling method and layer thickness, while themethod and layer
thickness, while the
effect of printing effect
speed andofmaterials
printingon speed and materials
the surface on the
roughness surface
is not roughness
obvious. is found
It can be not obvious. It
from the
can be found
figures from
that the the figures
surface that increases
roughness the surface roughness
with increases
the increase with
in layer the increase
thickness whenin layerparameters
other thickness
when other parameters remain unchanged. When the other parameters remain
remain unchanged. When the other parameters remain unchanged, the surface roughness of the grid unchanged, the
surface roughness of the
filling method is the largest.grid filling method is the largest.

100
90
Surface Roughness Rz(μm)

80
70
60
50 0.15
40 0.2
30 0.25
20
10
0
R 100 R 150 G 100 G 150 W 100 W 150 H 100 H 150
Process Parameters
Figure 9. Surface roughness of PLA tested parts under different process parameters.
Figure 9. Surface roughness of PLA tested parts under different process parameters.
Polymers 2020, 12, 1539 9 of 14
Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 9 of 14

100
90

Surface Roughness Rz(μm)

80
70
60
50 0.15
40 0.2
30 0.25
20
10
0
R 100 R 150 G 100 G 150 W 100 W 150 H 100 H 150
Process Parameters
Figure 10. Surface roughness of ABS tested parts under different process parameters.
Figure 10. Surface roughness of ABS tested parts under different process parameters.
Because the preparation of the hydrophobic coating takes a long time, in order to reduce the
Because
number the preparation
of experiments, of the hydrophobic
an orthogonal test method coating takes
was used fora experimental
long time, in design
order toof reduce the
the contact
number of experiments,
angle measurement. an orthogonal
According test method
to the above roughnesswasexperimental
used for experimental design
analysis results, theofeffectiveness
the contact
angle measurement.
of the orthogonal According
test method to theThe
is verified. above roughness
orthogonal experimental
test table analysis
used is as shown results,
in Table 5. the
effectiveness of the orthogonal test method is verified. The orthogonal test table used is as shown in
Table 5. Table 5. Orthogonal test table of surface roughness measurement.

Layer Thickness Print Speed Surface Roughness RZ

Filling Mode
Table 5. Orthogonal test table of surface roughness measurement.
(µm) (mm/s) (µm)
Layer
3 (0.25)Thickness Filling
3 (W) Mode Print Speed Surface Roughness
1 (100) 81.2 RZ
(μm)
1 (0.15) 2 (G) (mm/s)
3 (150) (μm) 86.1
3 3 (0.25) 1 (R)
3 (W) 3
1 (100) 81.2 79.2
1 1 (0.15) 32 (G) 32(150)
(125) 86.1 76.7
2 (0.20) 3 31 (R) 3 3 79.2 79.2
3 1 2 3 2
2 (125) 76.7 90.2
2 2 (0.20) 2 3 3 1 79.2 87.1
2 1 2 75.9
3 2 2 90.2
1 1 1 74.2
2 2 1 87.1
2 1 2 75.9
1
From Table 6 and Figure 11, it can be1found that the1 sensitive factors74.2
for surface roughness in FDM
printing are layer thickness and filling mode. The result is consistent with the actual experimental
From
results, Table
which 6 demonstrate
can and Figure 11, it can
that be found that
the orthogonal the sensitive
experiment factorsand
is effective for valuable.
surface roughness in
FDM printing are layer thickness and filling mode. The result is consistent with the actual
experimental results, which can demonstrate
Table that theoforthogonal
6. Range analysis experiment is effective and valuable.
surface roughness.

Range L_T F_M P_S

Table 6. Range analysis of surface roughness.
K1 237 229.3 242.5
K2Range 242.2L_T F_M 263.4 P_S242.8
K3 K1 250.6 237 229.3237.1 242.5244.5
k1 K2 79 76.43 242.880.83
242.2 263.4
k2 80.73 87.8 80.93
K3 250.6 237.1 244.5
k3 83.53 79.03 81.5
R k1 79
4.53 76.43
11.36 80.830.67
k2 80.73 87.8 80.93
k3 83.53 79.03 81.5
R 4.53 11.36 0.67
Polymers 2020, 12, 1539 10 of 14
Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 10 of 14

270

260

250

240

230
Layer Thickness Filling Mode Printing Speed
220

210
0.15 0.2 0.25 R G W 100 125 150
Figure 11. Index-factor.
Figure 11. Index-factor.
3.2. The Effect of Process Parameters on Wettability
3.2. The Effect of Process Parameters on Wettability
In order to construct a surface coating with optimal   hydrophobic properties, an orthogonal test
method In order to construct
was used a surface
to establish coating with
an orthogonal test optimal hydrophobic
(L9 34 , as properties,
shown in Table 7) withan orthogonal
three test
factors and
method was used to establish an orthogonal test (𝐿 3 , as shown in Table 7) with
three levels. According to the coating preparation method and contact angle measurement method three factors and
three levels.
mentioned in According
Sections 2.3toand
the2.4,
coating preparation method
the hydrophobicity and test
evaluation contact
was angle measurement
performed on the testmethod
pieces
mentioned in Sections 2.3 and 2.4, the hydrophobicity evaluation test was performed
printed by ABS and PLA materials, respectively. According to the established orthogonal test table, on the test
pieces printed by ABS and PLA materials, respectively. According to the established
each material only needs to complete nine tests. The experimental result is shown in Table 7. orthogonal test
table, each material only needs to complete nine tests. The experimental result is shown in Table 7.
Table 7. Experimental result of contact angle.
Table 7. Experimental result of contact angle.
Layer Thickness Print Speed Contact Angle
Layer ThicknessFilling Mode Print Speed Contact Angle
(µm) Filling Mode (mm/s) PLA ABS
(μm) (mm/s) PLA ABS
3 (0.25)
3 (0.25) 3 (W)3 (W) 11 (100)
(100) 101.90100.25100.25
101.90
1 (0.15)
1 (0.15) 2 (G)
2 (G) 3 (150)
3 (150) 100.17 100.47100.47
100.17
3 3 1 (R)
1 (R) 33 102.78101.91101.91
102.78
1 3 2 (125) 98.43 98.8
1 3 2 (125) 98.43 98.8
2 (0.20) 3 3 101.27 101.73
2 (0.20) 3 3 101.27 101.73
3 2 2 102.98 103.8
2 3 2 2 12 102.98
101.04 103.8101.73
2 2 1 2 21 101.04
99.65 101.7399.5
1 2 1 1 12 99.65
91.91 99.5 95.8
1 1 1 91.91 95.8

Through
Through the the range
range analysis
analysis of
of the
the orthogonal
orthogonal testtest results,
results, which
which areare shown
shown in in Table
Table 8, 8, itit can
can bebe
found
found that among the process parameters that affect the hydrophobic performance, whether it is
that among the process parameters that affect the hydrophobic performance, whether it is the
the
PLA
PLA oror ABS
ABS material,
material, thethe layer
layer thickness
thickness has has the
the largest
largest impact
impact onon the
the hydrophobic
hydrophobic performance,
performance,
followed
followedby bythe
thefilling
fillingmethod
methodand and thetheprinting
printingspeed.
speed. It can be be
It can seen from
seen Figures
from 12 and
Figures 12 and13, which
13, which are
graphs of the relationship between the index and the influencing factors, that the combination
are graphs of the relationship between the index and the influencing factors, that the combination of of process
parameters with the best
process parameters hydrophobic
with performance performance
the best hydrophobic is L_T3F_M2P_S3. However, this combination
is L_T3F_M2P_S3. However, this of
process parameters is not within the scope of the above nine trials. For this reason,
combination of process parameters is not within the scope of the above nine trials. For this reason, it it is necessary to
conduct experimental
is necessary to conductverification
experimental on verification
the optimalon combination
the optimalofcombination
process parameters,
of processand the final
parameters,
measured contact anglescontact
are 103.69 ◦ (PLA) and 104.60 ◦
and the final measured angles are 103.69° (PLA)(ABS).
and 104.60° (ABS)

Table 8. Range analysis of contact angle measurement.

PLA ABS
Range
L_T F_M P_S L_T F_M P_S
Polymers 2020, 12, 1539 11 of 14

Table 8. Range analysis of contact angle measurement.

Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 11 of 14
Polymers 2020, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW PLA ABS 11 of 14
Range K1 290.51 294.34 294.85 295.07 297.21 297.78
L_T F_M P_S L_T F_M P_S
K2
K1 301.96 294.34
290.51 304.19 301.06
294.85 302.96 297.21
295.07 306 302.1
297.78
K1 290.51
K3 307.66294.34
301.60 294.85
304.22 295.07 300.78297.21
305.96 304.11 297.78
K2 301.96 304.19 301.06 302.96 306 302.1
K2 301.96
k1 96.84304.1998.11 301.06
98.28 302.96 99.07 306
98.36 99.26 302.1
K3 307.66 301.60 304.22 305.96 300.78 304.11
K3 307.66
k2 100.65301.60
101.40 304.22
100.35 305.96
100.99 102 300.78
100.7 304.11
k1 96.84 98.11 98.28 98.36 99.07 99.26
k1 96.84 98.11 98.28 98.36 99.07 99.26
k3
k2 102.55 101.40
100.65 100.53 101.41
100.35 101.99 100.26
100.99 102 101.37
100.7
k2 100.65 101.40 100.35 100.99 102 100.7
R
k3 5.72
102.55 3.28
100.53 3.12
101.41 3.63
101.99 2.93 2.11
k3 102.55 100.53 101.41 101.99100.26100.26
101.37 101.37
R R5.72 5.72 3.283.28 3.12
3.12 3.633.63 2.93 2.11
2.93 2.11
310
310
305
305
300
300
295
Layer thickness Filling mode Printing Speed
295
290 Layer thickness Filling mode Printing Speed
290
285
285
280
280 0.15 0.2 0.25 R G W 100 125 150
0.15 0.2 0.25 R G W 100 125 150
Figure 12. Factor level of contact angle for PLA tested parts.
Figure 12. Factor level of contact angle for PLA tested parts.
Figure 12. Factor level of contact angle for PLA tested parts.
308
308
306
306
304
304
302
302
300
300
298
298
296
Layer thickness Filling mode Printing Speed
296
294
294
292
Layer thickness Filling mode Printing Speed
292
290
290
288
288 0.15 0.2 0.25 R G W 100 125 150
0.15 Figure
0.2 13.
0.25 R G W 100
Factor level of contact angle for ABS tested parts.
125 150
Figure 13. Factor level of contact angle for ABS tested parts.
3.3. Discussion of the Experimental
Figure 13. Results
Factor level of contact angle for ABS tested parts.
3.3. Discussion of the Experimental Results
(1) 3D printing is an effective processing method that can be used for the preparation of hydrophobic
3.3. Discussion
(1) 3D of the Experimental
printing is an effectiveResults
processinganmethod that can be used for thepreparation
preparationcan of
coatings. By adjusting the processing parameters, ideal surface structure for coating
hydrophobic
be (1) 3D It
obtained. coatings.
printing isBy
can be seen adjusting
anfrom
effective the
Figure 14processing
processing parameters,
method
that the obtained that an hydrophobic
can
surface ideal surface
be used structure
forproperties for
the preparationcoating
of the of
test
preparation
pieces printedcan
hydrophobic be obtained.
coatings.
under different It canthe
By adjusting
process be seen fromby
processing
parameters Figure 14 that
parameters,
adopting anthe
the obtained
ideal
same surface surface
coating hydrophobic
structure formethod
preparation coating
properties ofcan
preparation the be
testobtained.
pieces printed
It canunder
be seendifferent process14parameters
from Figure by adopting
that the obtained the hydrophobic
surface same coating
preparation
properties ofmethod
the test are significantly
pieces different.
printed under According
different processtoparameters
the above experimental
by adopting the results,
sameitcoating
can be
seen that the layer thickness and the filling method will significantly affect the surface
preparation method are significantly different. According to the above experimental results, it can be roughness of
the processed
seen test piece
that the layer so that
thickness anditthe
will affectmethod
filling the level of significantly
will the hydrophobicaffectperformance. 3D printing
the surface roughness of
the processed test piece so that it will affect the level of the hydrophobic performance. 3D printing
Polymers 2020, 12, 1539 12 of 14

are significantly
Polymers different.
2020, 12, x FOR According
PEER REVIEW to the above experimental results, it can be seen that the 12 layer
of 14
thickness and the filling method will significantly affect the surface roughness of the processed test piece
can prepare
so that it willtest pieces
affect withofa the
the level complex structure,
hydrophobic which has3D
performance. greater printing
printing flexibility
can prepare than other
test pieces with
traditional processingwhich
a complex structure, methods. At the same
has greater time,
printing for the processing
flexibility of single small
than other traditional batch parts,
processing methods.3D
printing has time,
At the same the advantages of fast response
for the processing of singlespeed
small and
batchlow cost.3D
parts, The above has
printing characteristics determine
the advantages of fast
the use ofspeed
response 3D printing
and lowtechnology to prepare
cost. The above polymersdetermine
characteristics with hydrophobic properties,
the use of 3D printing and is a low-
technology to
cost andpolymers
prepare efficient approach.
with hydrophobic properties, and is a low-cost and efficient approach.

Figure
Figure 14.
14. Contact
Contact angle
angle of
of tested
tested parts.
parts.

(2) As can ◦
(2) canbe beseen
seenfrom
from thethe
results of this
results experiment,
of this the maximum
experiment, the maximum contact angle can
contact reach
angle can104.60
reach .
However, we all know that, at present, ◦
104.60°. However, we all know that, at we can prepare
present, we cansuperhydrophobic coatings greater
prepare superhydrophobic coatings than 150 ,
greater
and the
than main
150°, andreason
the main for the small
reason formaximum
the small contact
maximum angle in thisangle
contact experiment is that the commercial
in this experiment is that the
coating used is a hydrophobic coating, not a superhydrophobic coating. The
commercial coating used is a hydrophobic coating, not a superhydrophobic coating. The purpose of purpose of this experiment
is to experiment
this verify the feasibility of this
is to verify themethod in preparing
feasibility a hydrophobic
of this method coating.
in preparing If the coatingcoating.
a hydrophobic used thisIftime
the
is changed
coating usedtothis
a superhydrophobic
time is changed tocoating, good superhydrophobic
a superhydrophobic coating, goodproperties can also be achieved.
superhydrophobic properties
(3) PLA
can also and ABS are used in this experiment, regardless of surface roughness or wettability,
be achieved.
and (3)
underPLAtheandsame
ABSprocess
are usedparameters, the effect
in this experiment, of material
regardless is not obvious
of surface roughness and
or shows the same
wettability, and
trend. the
under However, it should
same process be noted the
parameters, thateffect
if theofdimensional accuracy
material is not obvious and
and mechanical
shows theproperties
same trend. of
the prepared parts need to be considered, the rational selection of materials
However, it should be noted that if the dimensional accuracy and mechanical properties of the should be considered.
These twoparts
prepared materials
need have
to be different
considered,forming parameters
the rational and different
selection physical
of materials should andbechemical properties.
considered. These
Even under the same process parameters, their dimensional accuracy and
two materials have different forming parameters and different physical and chemical properties. mechanical properties are
also significantly different.
Even under the same process parameters, their dimensional accuracy and mechanical properties are
(4) Because there
also significantly are many manufacturers of FDM printers, it can be found in the actual printing
different.
practice that there are certain
(4) Because there are many differences in the process
manufacturers of FDM parameters ofcan
printers, it different manufacturers.
be found in the actualTherefore,
printing
when using
practice thatFDM
theretoareprepare
certainthedifferences
coating, thein printing equipment
the process needs toofbedifferent
parameters adjusted.manufacturers.
Therefore, when using FDM to prepare the coating, the printing equipment needs to be adjusted.
4. Conclusions
4. Conclusions
For PLA and ABS materials, the surface roughness distribution under different printing process
parameters
For PLA (layer thickness,
and ABS filling
materials, themethod,
surfaceand printing
roughness speed) wasunder
distribution analyzed. Experimental
different results
printing process
show that the layer thickness and filling method have a significant effect on the surface
parameters (layer thickness, filling method, and printing speed) was analyzed. Experimental results roughness.
The effect
show that of
thethe filling
layer method
thickness on filling
and the roughness should
method have be of concern,
a significant but
effect onthe
theeffect of the
surface printing
roughness.
speed
The on the
effect surface
of the roughness
filling method on is not
theobvious.
roughness should be of concern, but the effect of the printing
speed on the surface roughness is not obvious.
The orthogonal test method was used to evaluate the wettability. The research results show that
the 3D printing method can be used to prepare parts with low cost and a convenient method. The
choice of dip coating method can effectively prepare a hydrophobic coating, which significantly
Polymers 2020, 12, 1539 13 of 14

The orthogonal test method was used to evaluate the wettability. The research results show that the
3D printing method can be used to prepare parts with low cost and a convenient method. The choice
of dip coating method can effectively prepare a hydrophobic coating, which significantly improves
the hydrophobicity of PLA and ABS performance. At the same time, it can be found that the printing
parameters have a very significant effect on the wettability, and it is necessary to pay attention to optimize
the selection of the process parameter combination of layer thickness, filling method, and printing speed.
If FDM 3D printing is applied to prepare a hydrophobic coating, the layer thickness and filling
method should be optimized because these process parameters significantly affect the surface wettability.
In this experiment, the process parameters combination such as the grid filling method and 0.25 mm
layer thickness can be used to fabricate the parts with maximum contact angle.

Author Contributions: Methodology, H.Y. and F.J.; Validation, S.T.; Investigation, Z.L.; Writing—original draft
preparation, Z.L.; Writing—review and editing, H.Y.; Funding acquisition, H.Y. All authors have read and agreed
to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding: This research was funded by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (Grant
No. 2017MS150).
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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