Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), a versatile ultra-polymer for additive manufacturing

Abstract

1. Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) is a member of the Polyaryletherketone (PAEK) family of ultra-high performance polymers, known for their excellent mechanical properties, high use temperatures, and superior chemical resistance. PEKK is unique among this family of polymers because it offers a wide melting point range and a slower, tunable crystallization rate, which makes it suitable for a wide range of processing methods. In additive manufacturing, PEKK can be processed by either powder bed fusion or material extrusion techniques, and offers the flexibility to produce either amorphous or semicrystalline parts. This paper will outline several proposed routes to produces semicrystalline PEKK parts via extrusion based additive manufacturing, and relate printing conditions to the development of crystallinity in PEKK parts. We will discuss how computer simulation coupled with an understanding of crystallization kinetics can help predict optimal print conditions and compare these results to actual printed parts. Additionally, the effects of fiber and mineral fillers on the print process and final part will be examined.