Review of Materials and Processes Used in 4D Printing

Abstract

Applications of smart materials are widely popular in various industries like medical, defence, space research, aerospace, etc. These smart materials are used to perform certain dynamic functions and reduce number of components required for dynamic functions. The dynamic functions are related to shape changing ability of the material. Generally, due to flexibility and economic point of view, all applications of smart materials follow conventional methods to make smart materials in use. Researchers have shown interest toward use of smart materials in 3D-printing methods exist in additive manufacturing and named this as 4D printing. The aim of the paper is wide go through on smart materials that are used in various 3D-printing methods. All smart materials (Alloys and polymers) have different set of physical, mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. These properties are the root of the use of the smart material for a particular type of 3D-printing methods. AS each 3D-printing method differ from other in principle and the use of input smart material. This paper emphasizes on the 3D-printing processes in light of use of smart materials. This study will help in easy characterization of 4D-printing methods based on various materials.