Most people know that a microwave works by exciting water molecules, but I’m not interested in the dangers of the high voltage/current of a magnetron. I wonder what might be possible with scrap consumer drivers such as a piezo, speaker drivers, or ultrasonic inducers, preferably at a frequency outside of the core human audible spectrum.
- Would an induced vibration in an around 60°C, lightly convective environment, likely significantly increase the evaporation rate of water moisture absorbed within the filament of a spool of consumer grade 3d printing filament such as PLA, PETG, PC, TPU, or Aramid?
- Would certain frequencies likely alter performance?
I know ultrasonic humidifiers are a thing, but I’ve never heard of using sound for materials drying. I suspect gentle heating would be far more effective. And the ultrasonic would probably degrade the material as well.
But give it a shot and see if it works.
For me, ideas and digital designs are cheap, but due to my physical disability, the motivations to harm myself by doing any physical activities are very mentally expensive.
It is rare for someone to have damaged their thoracic (ribs region) spine. Holding posture is like lift weights for me, and working with my hands is doubly so. That is what leaves me with many unfinished projects and most of these concepts abandoned long before they start. It might be different if someone can convince me that the idea has merit. Still I think it is an idea worth sharing and maybe someone else takes up the mantle of trying.
There was a tech demo (I think? It’s been a while) of an ultrasonic (clothes) dryer. They used sound waves to excite water droplets and extract them from the fabric. I don’t think it would be possible with filament.
Maybe a vacuum and gentle heating?