Which chemical can be used to smooth the surface when printing in ABS?

Acetone is a commonly used chemical for smoothing the surface of 3D printed objects made from ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene). The reason acetone is effective is due to its ability to dissolve ABS material slightly, allowing it to create a smooth finish on the surface. When an ABS part is exposed to vaporized acetone, the outer layer of the printed item becomes softened, enabling imperfections to be filled and creating a glossy appearance.

This smoothing process not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the print but can also improve the mechanical properties by reducing stress concentrations that might occur at surface imperfections. Additionally, acetone's relatively quick evaporation rate makes it suitable for use in a smoothing chamber, where controlled exposure can be achieved.

The other chemicals listed have different applications or properties that do not align as well with the smoothing of ABS. For example, Isopropyl Alcohol is primarily a cleaning agent and does not effectively dissolve ABS. Ethyl Acetate, while a solvent for some plastics, is not typically used for ABS smoothing. Methylene Chloride is a potent solvent for a variety of plastics but is less common due to its hazardous nature and regulation concerns. Therefore, acetone stands out as the most effective and widely