Antibacterial enhancement and mechanical characterization of PLA resin through the addition of AgNO3 for DLP 3D printing

Pathogens like bacteria can survive on surfaces for long periods, increasing the risk of disease transmission. While chemical cleaning products are commonly used, many contain volatile organic compounds that are hazardous to human health. To address this, incorporating antibacterial properties directly into materials offers a promising solution. This study explored the integration of silver nitrate (AgNO<inf>3</inf>) into PLA resin for DLP 3D printing, aiming to create antimicrobial 3D-printed objects. After mixing and printing, the material was tested for both antibacterial and mechanical properties. Results showed that higher AgNO<inf>3</inf> concentrations significantly enhanced antibacterial performance against E. coli and S. aureus but also reduced tensile and compressive strengths. These findings highlight the need to balance antimicrobial effectiveness with mechanical integrity for practical applications. © 2025