3D Printing of Molecular Potential Energy Surface Models

Abstract

Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is gaining popularity in a variety of applications and has recently become routinely available. Today, 3D printing services are not only found in engineering design labs and through online companies, but also in university libraries offering student access. In addition, affordable options for home hobbyists have already been introduced. Here, we demonstrate the use of 3D printing to generate plastic models of molecular potential energy surfaces useful for understanding molecular structure and reactivity.