<![CDATA[3D printing is a technology that is developing rapidly in recent times. Cellulose Esters, one of the derivatives of cellulose, can be used as alternative filament candidates for 3D printing. One source of cellulose that can be used for the synthesis of cellulose esters is oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB). In order for cellulose ester from OPEFB to be used as an alternative filament material, it is necessary to observe the mechanical properties of cellulose ester and its derivative products. This study aims to determine the mechanical properties and characterization of cellulose ester and its derivative products as an alternative material for 3D printing. The results of this study indicate that from the results of the characterization using the Thermogravimetry Analysis method, it is known that the melting point of the cellulose ester produced is between the conventional filaments that are often used, namely polylactic acid and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene so that the cellulose ester produced from OPEFB has the potential to replace already available filaments. From the results of mechanical testing, in this experiment, it can be concluded that to obtain optimal mechanical strength from 3D printing using cellulose ester ink, the infill density of the product ranges from 100% - 80%. Meanwhile, to get a good 3D filament, the composition of the cellulose ester:polylactic acid mixture of the product is 20%:80%. Mechanical testing also shows that there are differences in the values of Tensile Strength and Modulus of Elasticity. The value of Tensile Strength is higher in the estrification process at a higher temperature, but the value of the Modulus of Elasticity is higher at a lower temperature. Meanwhile, for the same processing temperature, there is no significant difference in the value of the Modulus of Elasticity.]]>
