# Effects of Pre- and Post-Processing on Pin-Bearing Strength of 3D-Printed Composite Specimens with Circular Notches

## TL;DR

This study examines how pre- and post-processing methods affect the strength of 3D-printed composites with notches, important for marine applications.

## Contribution

The paper introduces new insights into the mechanical performance of 3D-printed composites based on processing methods and notch fabrication.

## Key findings

- Post-treated specimens showed up to 23% higher bearing stress at smaller hole diameters.
- Post-processing improved toughness in 0° fiber orientation specimens.
- Damage modes varied depending on the processing method used.

## Abstract

To apply 3D printing-based continuous fiber composites in shipbuilding and marine applications, the pin-bearing fastening method with notch holes can be considered as an effective method. In this study, pin-bearing strength tests were performed on a 3D-printed composite consisting of carbon fiber and Onyx to evaluate the effect of hole notches fabricated through pre- and post-processing. The experimental results showed the difference in the mechanical fastening strength of the specimens, depending on the method used to fabricate the hole notch. As the width-to-diameter ratio (W/D) decreased, ultimate bearing strength, strain, and toughness decreased. The post-treated specimens exhibited higher initial stiffness than the pre-treated specimens, and their bearing stress was up to 23% higher at smaller hole diameters (≤6 mm). In particular, for specimens with 0° fiber orientation, the post-processed specimens showed markedly higher toughness than the pre-processed ones, with increases at 5 mm and 6 mm hole diameters, respectively, thereby demonstrating superior performance in both strength and energy absorption. The damage modes of the circular notches were also found to depend on the pre- and post-processing conditions. These results suggest that fiber orientation, W/D ratio, and processing method should be considered when designing mechanical fasteners for 3D-printed composites in marine structures.