Fused deposition modelling can be used to 3D print prosthetic sockets with textured surfaces that may improve suspension by increasing the coefficient of friction (COF). However, bonding strength between material layers may be compromised. The aim of this technical note was to investigate the COF and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of differently textured prosthetic socket specimens using the American Society for Testing and Materials standards (ASTM D638-14 and D1894-14). Fourteen different textures were fabricated using the Squirt-Shape 3D Printer. Static COF, kinetic COF and UTS were compared to reference samples that included a smooth sheet of the same polypropylene copolymer. Specimens were prepared and tested using a hydraulic material testing system. COF was assessed using a one-way MANOVA, while UTS was assessed using a one-way ANOVA. There was a significant difference in static and kinetic COF (p<0.0005) based on texture. While some textured samples had a larger static COF than the smooth sample, all but one textured sample had a lower kinetic COF. All textured samples were significantly weaker than smooth samples (p<0.0005). These results provide an initial understanding of the effect of texturing on material properties, allowing us to select the most promising texture patterns for further investigation.
