This study investigates the feasibility of utilizing low-cost Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology to produce durable Tactile Graphics (TG) for outdoor environments. Five common FDM thermoplastics—PLA, ABS, ASA, PET-G, and PP—were evaluated for printability, geometric quality, wear resistance, UV resistance, and chemical resistance. Results indicate that PLA offers high geometric precision and ease of printing, rendering it suitable for low-cost indoor applications. For outdoor environments, PET-G exhibited the best overall performance in wear and chemical resistance, while ASA demonstrated significant UV degradation. PP, although durable, presented challenges in printability. ABS and ASA exhibited a favorable trade-off between printing quality and environmental resistance. A multi-objective selection function was developed to guide material selection based on specific TG requirements. For indoor applications prioritizing quality and cost-effectiveness, PLA is recommended. For outdoor TGs requiring durability and chemical resistance, PET-G is preferred. ABS offers a balanced option with moderate durability and good geometric quality. This study provides a comprehensive framework for expanding FDM applications in accessible TG manufacturing for various environments and use cases.
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