Recent advances in 3D printing for catalytic applications

Abstract

Diversified printing mechanism and various applicable materials endow 3D printing technology with a wide range of applications in catalysis. Hence, the purpose of this review is to provide a general overview of various 3D printing strategies and catalytic applications, and future outlook towards the catalysis field. • Various 3D printing strategies and mechanisms are introduced. • Applications of 3D printing in catalysis are reviewed. • The prospect and challenges of 3D printing in catalysis are expected. Three-dimensional (3D) printing is changing the way of designing and manufacturing 3D objects by transforming digital models into solid models. 3D printing, known as a revolutionary additive manufacturing, also has an impact on catalysis with its continuous progress. Currently, 3D printing technology is widely combined with some related catalytic reactions and processes. Different from the traditional manufacture mode, the computer-aided digital and intelligent manufacturer makes the research on monolithic catalysts, reactors, mixers and ancillaries more in-depth. 3D printing gives more diversity and provides broader applications for catalysis. This review mainly introduces different 3D printing technologies, processes and printing mechanisms, and epitomizes their research and applications in the field of catalysis.