In‐depth investigation and industry plan for enhancing surface finishing of 3D printed polymer composite components: A critical review

Abstract

AbstractAdditive manufacturing (AM) is pivotal in modern manufacturing, allowing diverse materials to create functional parts. Polymer composites, with superior properties like enhanced mechanics and conductivity, are highly regarded. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is a favored, cost‐effective AM technique. Despite popularity, FDM struggles with poor surface quality, impacting final part properties. This challenge affects composite part performance, prompting a need for surface quality enhancements in AM processes, like FDM. The review explores essential post‐treatments required to optimize composite parts for various applications. It examines surface finishing techniques for FDM 3D printed polymeric composites, categorizing them into chemical, thermal, and physical methods. Recent research is extensively analyzed, offering a comprehensive guide for academia and industry. The review covers diverse aspects, including properties, surface morphology, electrical conductivity, and mechanical properties pre‐ and post‐finishing methods. Additionally, it summarizes leading companies worldwide providing surface finishing services for 3D printed polymer parts. Discussions on future trends, challenges, and research gaps in this field are included, emphasizing its significance in refining surface finishing methods for FDM 3D‐printed polymeric composites and encouraging broader industrial adoption of AM. This overview serves as a crucial roadmap for engineers, scientists, customers, and companies interested in surface finishing services.