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Dielectric Analysis (DEA) uses the dielectric properties of polymers. For this purpose, the professorship is equipped with the DEA 288 Ionic from NETZSCH. By applying a sinusoidal voltage, the response of the polymer is measured via two electrodes. In this way, the melting and crystallization of semi-crystalline thermoplastics can be determined. The curing of thermosets can also be measured using a connectable UV lamp. The great advantage of DEA is the immense measuring frequency spectrum from 1 mHz to 1 MHz with which the plastic can be measured. Current research at the professorship is concerned with quantifying the measurement signal for thermoplastics and using it as an in-situ measurement technique in the PBF-LB/P process.

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The NETZSCH DSC Caliris 300 Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) instrument is used for the thermal analysis of plastics. The DSC can be used to determine essential polymer properties such as glass transition ranges, melting and crystallization ranges, and specific heat capacities. Knowledge of these values is important for later use in the additive manufacturing process. For example, DSC can be used to detect powder aging. In addition to determining temperature peaks and enthalpies, the “Proteus" evaluation software allows an unknown material to be automatically identified by database comparison.

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The Mastersizer 2000 by Malvern Panalytical is a laser diffraction particle size analyzer. It measures the size distribution of particles in a sample by analyzing how a laser beam is scattered as it passes through the sample. The system is used across various industries, including additive manufacturing and materials science, to ensure consistent quality and performance of products by providing precise and reproducible particle size data. 
At the Professorship of Laser-based Additive Manufacturing, we focus on advancing additive manufacturing using the powder bed fusion process, where powder particle size and distribution are critical for product quality and performance. The Mastersizer 2000 plays a key role by ensuring precise particle size control, which is essential for uniform powder beds, consistent layer formation, and high-quality, defect-free parts. By optimizing process parameters and monitoring recycled powder, the Mastersizer 2000 enhances build quality and material properties. Our research leverages this technology to improve efficiency and reliability in PBF, advancing the capabilities of modern manufacturing.

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Melt flow indexing is a critical method for evaluating the quality and consistency of polymer powders used in laser sintering processes. In our research, we utilize melt flow indexing to monitor and ensure the uniformity of powder characteristics before processing. This technique involves measuring the melt mass volume rate (MVR), which reflects the material's viscosity and flow behavior when subjected to heat. By analyzing these properties, we can detect changes in powder quality and predict how aging due to high processing temperatures might affect the material. This method aligns with the DIN EN ISO 1133 test standard and helps maintain optimal powder performance by confirming that the MVR falls within a predefined range, ensuring reliability and precision in our additive manufacturing processes.