Multi-scale micro-stereolithography using optical fibers with a photocurable ceramic slurry

Abstract

In this study, ceramic lattice microstructures were fabricated via micro-stereolithography using optical fibers to irradiate a photocurable ceramic slurry containing β-tricalciumphosphate microparticles. Changing the optical fiber core diameter and incident laser power can produce microstructures of the desired linewidths and cured depths. Fabrication conditions, such as scanning distance, accumulation pitch, and number of lamination layers, were optimized using the proposed method. The fabricated lattice structures were degreased and sintered to produce ceramic lattice structures. Overall, a simple and compact fabrication system was proposed for producing 3D microparts fabricated from various kinds of ceramics for electronics, mechanics, optics, and medical applications.