Potential Of 3D Printing Technology Research Articles

A comprehensive review on fresh and rheological properties of 3D printable cementitious composites

The undeniable potential of 3D printing technology to revolutionize global manufacturing processes has led to the emergence of advanced, digitalized, and fully automated construction techniques. Despite the growing interest in this technology, a significant challenge still exists in the development of cement-based printing material due to the complex interaction of various fresh and rheological property parameters. This review comprehensively explores fundamental fresh properties (flowability, buildability, extrudability, pumpability and open time) and rheological properties (static yield stress, dynamic yield stress, plastic viscosity) essential for the formulation of 3D printable cementitious composites, with and without fibres. The results obtained from different rheometers for successful 3D printed mixes are also summarized, highlighting variation in recorded values. Moreover, the review thoroughly investigates factors affecting both fresh and rheological properties, such as the type of supplementary cementitious materials, fibre type and dosage, superplasticizer, and viscosity-modifying admixture. It also identifies the clear impact of these parameters and further recommends the optimal range of some properties, such as a flowability value between 160 and 200 mm, to achieve desirable 3D printability of cementitious composites. Overall, this review offers valuable insights for developing new mix compositions suitable for 3D printing and serves as a useful tool in establishing guidelines for 3D printable cementitious composite materials, which are currently lacking but crucial for research, development, and application in this field.

3D printed reticular manganese dioxide cathode with high areal capacity for aqueous zinc ion batteries

The integration of electronic devices has placed increasing demands on the low area occupancy, high areal capacity and safety of energy storage devices. Aqueous zinc ion batteries are expected to be used in highly integrated precision electronics due to their high safety, environmentally friendly and low cost advantages. However, the conventional coating method limits the structure and the areal capacity of electrodes. To address this issue, we design and fabricate a novel 3D printed reticular MnO2 self-supporting cathode. Ascribed to the high mass loading and reticular structure of the reticular MnO2 cathode, the AZIBs deliver a high areal capacity (3.43 mAh cm−2 at 2 mA cm−2). It is demonstrated that the reticular structure facilitates electrolyte storage and rapid diffusion of Zn2+ and reduces charge transfer impedance. Furthermore, the 3D printing technology can realize layer-by-layer printing of electrodes. The areal capacity of the two-layer 3D reticular MnO2 cathode is almost twice as high as that of 3D reticular MnO2. This work indicates the great potential of 3D printing technology in the design and fabrication of high-load electrodes with a high areal capacity and customized shapes.

A 3D-Printed Model for High Sacrectomy of a Marjolin’s Ulcer–Associated Sacral Tumor: A Case Report and Literature Review

Marjolin’s ulcer is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that often presents significant surgical challenges due to the complex anatomy of the pelvis and the necessity for wide excision to avoid recurrence. This case report highlights the innovative use of a 3-dimensional (3D)–printed model for the precise planning and successful execution of a high partial sacrectomy in a 48-year-old male patient with quadriplegia. This patient, who had sustained a cervical spine injury in 1996, developed a sacral pressure sore that progressed into a Marjolin's ulcer. Utilizing high-resolution 3D computed tomography scans, we created a detailed 3D-printed model of the patient's sacrum, which facilitated a thorough understanding of the tumor's anatomy and its spatial relationships with critical structures. This approach significantly aided the surgical team in executing a challenging excision while minimizing risk to the adjacent organs. This case underscores the potential of 3D printing technology to enhance surgical planning and outcomes in complex oncological resections, particularly in anatomically challenging regions.

Prediction of textural properties of 3D-printed food using response surface methodology

3D printing has enabled modifying internal structures of the food affecting textural properties, but predicting desired texture remains challenging. To overcome this challenge, the use of response surface methodology (RSM) was demonstrated to develop empirical models relating 3D printing parameters to textural properties using aqueous inks containing cricket powders as a model system. Regression models were established for our key textural properties (i.e., hardness (H), adhesiveness (A), cohesiveness (C), and springiness (S)) in response to three 3D printing parameters: infill percentage (i), layer height (h), and print speed (s). Our developed model successfully predicted the 3D printing parameters to achieve the intended textural properties using a multi-objective optimization framework. The predicted limits for H, A, C, and S were 0.66–5.39 N, 0.01–12.43 mJ, 0.01–1.05, and 0–19.20 mm, respectively. To validate our models, we simulated the texture of other food using our model ink and achieved high accuracy for H (99%), C (82%), and S (87%). This work highlights a simple way to 3D-print foods with spatially different textures and materials, unlocking the full potential of 3D printing technology for manufacturing a range of customized foods.

Analyzing the Influence of Multimaterial 3D Printing and Postprocessing on Mechanical and Tribological Characteristics

Abstract3D printing has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity due to its flexibility in design and adaptability as a manufacturing technique to nearly each industrial area. This study focuses on harnessing the technological versatility of 3D printing by utilizing both standard poly lactic acid (PLA) and copper powder‐doped PLA to fabricate intricate structures through a layer‐by‐layer additive manufacturing process. The other innovation introduced here lies in the postprocessing step, which involves salt remelting. The mechanical properties of 3D‐printed standard test specimens undergo comprehensive assessment, encompassing bending and tensile evaluations, hardness measurements, density assessments, dimensional stability analyses, and wear resistance examinations. Utilizing copper powder‐doped PLA for the initial and final layers in XYZ‐oriented prints enables multimaterial printing, resulting in an ≈14% increase in tensile strength. Subsequently, subjecting this multimaterial composite to salt remelting elevates the strength enhancement to ≈16%, accompanied by a significant boost in rigidity by reducing voids in cross‐sectional area. In addition, scanning electron microscope images are captured, allowing for a detailed morphological analysis, which is then correlated with the findings of the various tests performed. This research unveils the potential of 3D printing technology in crafting materials with tailored mechanical properties, advancing its applicability in numerous industrial sectors.

Exploring the Impact of 3D Printing Technology on Patient-Specific Prosthodontic Rehabilitation: A Comparative Study

ABSTRACT Introduction: The rapid advancement of 3D printing technology has opened new avenues for patient-specific prosthodontic rehabilitation. This study aimed to explore the impact of 3D printing technology on prosthodontic outcomes and patient satisfaction through a comparative analysis. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 patients requiring prosthodontic rehabilitation were recruited for this study. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group, where 3D printing technology was utilized for the fabrication of patient-specific prostheses, and the control group, where conventional fabrication techniques were employed. Various parameters were assessed, including prosthesis fit, occlusion, esthetics, and patient-reported outcomes such as comfort and satisfaction. Digital measurements and subjective evaluations were conducted to compare the outcomes between the two groups. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate tests. Results: Preliminary findings indicated that the use of 3D printing technology in prosthodontic rehabilitation resulted in superior prosthesis fit, enhanced occlusal stability, and improved esthetics compared to conventional methods. Moreover, patients in the experimental group reported higher levels of comfort and overall satisfaction. The advantages of 3D printing technology were observed across different types of prosthodontic restorations, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. These results highlight the potential of 3D printing technology to revolutionize patient-specific prosthodontic rehabilitation. By facilitating precise fabrication, customization, and improved functional outcomes, 3D printing can enhance the overall quality of prosthodontic care. Further long-term studies are warranted to validate these findings and explore the cost-effectiveness and long-term durability of 3D-printed prostheses. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the integration of 3D printing technology in patient-specific prosthodontic rehabilitation holds great promise for achieving optimal functional and esthetic outcomes. The findings contribute to advancing prosthodontic practices and provide valuable insights for clinicians and researchers seeking to incorporate this innovative technology into their treatment protocols.

Development of Healthy Snacks Incorporating Meal from Tenebrio molitor and Alphitobius diaperinus Using 3D Printing Technology.

This study analyzes the nutritional properties of edible insects, specifically Tenebrio molitor and Alphitobius diaperinus, and explores the potential of 3D printing technology to introduce a nutritious and tasty alternative to essential nutrients for Western consumers. An original formulation for the printing of snacks with microalgae was adapted to incorporate edible insects. Concentrations of 10% of edible insects, both isolated and mixed, were incorporated into the developed ink-doughs. Stress and frequency sweeps were performed on the doughs to understand the rheology and the impact on the internal structure to better adapt these materials to the 3D printing process. The nutritional profile of the developed snacks was assessed, revealing a significant amount of protein, enough to claim the snacks as a "source of protein", as well as an increased mineral profile, when compared to the control snack. The antioxidant profile and total phenolic content were equally assessed. Finally, a sensory analysis test was performed, comparing the control snack to three other samples containing 10% T. molitor, 10% A. diaperinus and 5% + 5% of T. molitor and A. diaperinus, respectively, resulting in a preference for the A. diaperinus and for the combination of the two insects. Considered as a "novel food", foods incorporating edible insects represent, in fact, the reintroduction of foods used in the West before the Middle Ages, when the Judeo-Christian tradition began to consider insects as not kosher. Educating consumers about the transition to novel foods can be helped by 3D printing food, as an innovative process that can be used to design creative rich animal protein snacks that make final products more appealing and acceptable to consumers.

In-situ and adhesive repair of continuous fiber composites using 3D printing

The development of automated repair processes for continuous carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) composites is still in its early stages. However, the emergence of 3D printing technology presents a significant opportunity for the automated repair process to evolve alongside CFRTP composites. This study aims to evaluate the 3D printing repair of continuous fiber composites (CFCs) and characterize the mechanical performance of the repaired specimens. Two methods are proposed for repairing CFRTP utilizing additive manufacturing (AM): repair by a separately 3D-printed and subsequently adhesively bonded patch and repair with 3D printing in-situ at a recess damage. To compare the performance of the proposed methods, 16 test specimens were 3D printed, consisting of 4 intact and 12 damaged samples. Among the damaged samples, 4 were used as damaged specimens, 4 were repaired with adhesively bonded patches, and the remainder were repaired by in-situ printing. Mechanical tests were conducted on all four types of specimens, and the results indicate that the 3D-printed in-situ repair of carbon-reinforced polycarbonate has both the highest strength and elastic modulus. The results show that the repair using adhesive patches and repair in-situ improves the elastic modulus of the damaged specimens by 30% and 44%, respectively. Similarly, the tensile strength of the specimens repaired by adhesive patches and in-situ printing is 20% and 28%, respectively, higher than that of the damaged samples. An analytical model was developed to predict the elastic modulus of damaged and intact specimens, and the analytically predicted stiffnesses showed good agreement with the experimental measurements. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of 3D printing technology for repairing CFRTP composites and highlights the advantages of in-situ printing over adhesive patch repair.

Exploring the Potential of 3D Printing Technology for Sustainable Plastic Roads: A Preliminary Investigation

The urgency of climate change has highlighted the need for sustainable road construction materials, replacing the conventional asphalt, which significantly contributes to global warming and the urban heat island effect. With this in mind, the construction of the world’s first 30-m plastic road in Zwolle, Netherlands, in 2018, opened the door for novel plastic applications as paving materials. However, its application is currently still limited to sidewalks and light-load cycling lanes. The feasibility of utilizing 3D printing technology to provide the necessary structural design flexibility for the production of plastic pavement modules that can withstand heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions was examined in this preliminary study. The suitability of six plastic materials (PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, Nylon, and polycarbonate) for 3D printing was evaluated. Polylactic acid (PLA), and polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) were identified as the most suitable materials for this study. Three small-scale structural systems, namely hollow modular with plastic columns, hollow modular with solid plastic cones, and hollow modular with X-bracing, were designed and successfully printed using the adopted materials and a 3D printer. The developed systems were subsequently subjected to compression testing to assess their structural performance under heavy traffic loads and demonstrate the feasibility of the concept. The results showed that the PLA conic structural system was effective and exhibited the highest compression strength, while the PETG conic system exhibited ductile behavior with superior thermal stability. The study suggests that the hybrid system of PLA and PETG materials may improve the overall performance, combine flexibility and strength, and potentially improve the resistance to extreme weather and heavy traffic. These findings prove that 3D printing technology has the potential to revolutionize the road construction industry and provide more sustainable solutions for infrastructure development.

Development of 3D printed nanomaterials for restoration of exterior artworks

Despite the great potential of 3D printing technologies coupled with nanotechnologies, just few studies are present in the scientific literature. Application of nanocomposites materials for 3D printing in the field of cultural heritage restoration, is a promising approach to obtain novel and functionalized materials for the artworks element to be recreated. In this context, the present work aims to study innovative nanocomposites materials suitable for the considered application. A commercial PLA filament was additivated with SiC, SiO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles, synthetized by CO2 laser pyrolysis. Nanocomposite filaments were produced by a co-rotating twin-screw extruder and specimens were produced by 3D printing and analysed against their mechanical and hydrophobic properties by means of tensile tests and water absorption and contact angle measurements, respectively.

Tailoring of 3D printed polyethylenimine functionalized MCM-41 based monoliths and scrutiny on CO2 adsorption characteristics

Amine functionalized mesoporous silica materials have emerged as promising adsorbents in terms of CO2 capture. Despite the noteworthy advancement in the development of novel adsorbents, commercial implementation of solid-gas contactors in real-time application is challenging. This is because, the conventional packed bed systems exhibit high-pressure drop, poor mass as well as heat transfer characteristics, attrition, and dusting issue. Therefore, it is pre-requisite to develop definite structured configurations in view of industrial applications. In the current work, 3D printing technique is used to fabricate PEI functionalized MCM-41 based structured configuration and their CO2 adsorption performance is investigated. In this study, MCM-41 is subjected to organic modification using PEI entities with different molecular weights (MW ∼ 600, 1200, 1800) and formulated into 3D printable ceramic ink using appropriate binders and plasticizers. The ceramic ink showed shear thinning behavior when the plasticizer is minimal in the formulation. The ceramic ink is then processed into three-dimensional configurations using pneumatic extrusion technique and their physicochemical characteristics are analyzed in addition to their powder counterparts. The current work aims to envisage the influence of molecular weight of organic moiety used for the functionalization of MCM-41 on the CO2 uptake capacity of 3D printed monoliths at different temperature conditions (30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105 ℃). Through this study, we aim to tailor the design of 3D printed polyethylenimine functionalized MCM-41 based monoliths and assess their CO2 adsorption properties, selectivity, and stability across multiple cycles. By addressing these aspects, our research contributes to the field by advancing the understanding of tailored adsorbent materials for CO2 capture and highlighting the potential of 3D printing technology in fabricating structured adsorbents for industrial applications.

Space-filling and print path generation methods for large-area 3D concrete printing pavements

3D concrete printing (3DCP) technology is a construction method that offers a unique combination of automation and customization. However, when the printing area goes large, generating the print path becomes a sophisticated work. That’s because the customized print path should not only be expandable but also printable, such rules are hard to follow as both the printing area and construction requirements increase. In this paper, the Shenzhen Baoan 3D Printing Park project serves as a case study to introduce space-filling and print path generation methods for three types of large-area concrete pavement. The space-filling methods utilize geometry-based rules to generate complex and expandable paving patterns, while the print path generation methods utilize construction-oriented rules to convert these patterns into print paths. The research provides easy-to-operate design and programming workflows to achieve a pavement printing area of 836 sqm, which significantly increases the construction scale of large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) and shows the potential of 3D printing technology to reach non-standard results by using standard workflows.

Additive Manufacturing of Titanium-Based Materials Using Electron Beam Wire 3D Printing Approach: Peculiarities, Advantages, and Prospects

Potential of additive manufacturing technologies, namely, xBeam 3D Metal Printing for the fabrication of uniform Ti–6Al–4V (Ti-6-4, mas.%) material as well as layered titanium-based structures, with mechanical properties sufficient for wide practical application is demonstrated. The key distinctive features of this process are titanium alloy wire as a feedstock material and hollow conical electron beam for heating and melting of the wire. 3D printed with special ‘shift strategy’ Ti-6-4 alloy meets requirements to mechanical characteristics of corresponding conventional cast and wrought products, if microstructure features, material anisotropy and crystallographic texture are controlled with proper selection of processing parameters. Production of multilayered materials consisting of combined layers of different titanium materials, viz. commercially pure titanium (CP-Ti), Ti-6-4 and high-strength T110 alloys, as well as metal matrix composites (MMC) based on Ti-6-4 matrix reinforced by fine TiC particles is considered. Microstructural features and mechanical properties of all 3D printed materials are investigated. Terminal ballistic tests are performed with different ammunition. Described results show the promising potential of 3D printing technologies, xBeam 3D Metal Printing as an example, for manufacturing of titanium-based multilayered armour materials with reduced thickness and weight, and at the same time, sufficient protection characteristics.

3D bioprinting in airway reconstructive surgery: A pilot study

ObjectivesOpen surgery is a reliable choice for congenital subglottic stenosis, that represents the third most common congenital anomaly of the larynx. One of the procedures performed is anterior laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) with anterior rib graft. The objective of this preliminary study was to evaluate the potential of 3D printing technology for the realization of laryngo-tracheal scaffold in Polycaprolactone (PCL) implanted in vivo in ovine animal model. MethodsA 3D computer model of a laryngeal graft and a tracheal graft was designed and printed with PCL through 3D additive manufacturing technology. The scaffolds were seeded with autologous mesenchymal stem cells and cultured in vitro for up to 14 days. Anterior graft LTR with 3D printed scaffolds was performed on 5 sheep. The animals underwent endoscopic examinations at the first, 3rd, 6th, and 12th weeks after surgery and before sacrifice. The integration of the material was evaluated by the pathologist. ResultsTwo animals showed a favourable postoperative course and were sacrificed at 6 months postoperatively. In these cases, we observed endoscopically a complete integration of the cellularized PCL scaffold into the peri-implant tissues, and the pathologist found the growth of respiratory epithelium on the scaffold's inner surface. Other two animals showed a difficult post-operative recovery characterized by respiratory distress resulting in early sacrifice on postoperative days 31 and 33. In these animals we found a poor integration of the grafts into the tracheal structure, and a better integration of the laryngeal scaffold. The last animal developed a wound abscess and was sacrificed 80 days after surgery. We observed, in this case, a poor scaffold integration and an acute inflammatory reaction. ConclusionsFrom the preliminary data obtained we found that the excessive stiffness of the material, along with the anatomical features of the sheep, is a major limitation of this study. It will be necessary in the future to create a new biocompatible, more flexible and elastic graft, to achieve greater integration into surrounding tissues. Bioconstructed grafts could simplify surgery for the treatment of laryngo-tracheal stenosis, particularly in the treatment of long tracheal stenoses, which have, at the moment, very complex surgical options. Level of evidenceNA.

A new and simple way to prepare monolithic solid oxide fuel cell stack by stereolithography 3D printing technology using 8 mol% yttria stabilized zirconia photocurable slurry

Yttria (8 mol%) stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) photocurable slurry is the basis for stereolithography-based 3D (SLA) printed structured electrolyte support for monolithic solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stack. The curing resin with trifunctional trimethylolpropane triacrylate and 1,6-hexanediol diacrylate (TMPTA/HDDA) mass ratio of 1.5:8.5 and 1 wt% of photoinitiator provided excellent curing performance and low viscosity of 2.1 mPa·s. Stable 8YSZ photocurable slurry possessing high solid content of 43 vol% and low viscosity of 3.6 Pa·s at 30 s−1 shear rate were obtained, without particle sedimentation after 180-day stability test. The activation energy of 8YSZ fabricated by 3D printing method was 0.87 eV, similar to that by dry-pressing method. The 3D printed monolithic 3-tube SOFC stack exhibited a peak power density of 230 mW·cm−2 at 850 °C. This research proves the great potential of 3D printing technology to prepare monolithic SOFC stack, paving the way to develop SOFCs for practical applications.

CNT@MnO2 composite ink toward a flexible 3D printed micro‐zinc‐ion battery

AbstractFlexible energy storage devices have played a significant role in multiscenario applications, while flexible zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs), as an essential branch, have developed rapidly in recent years. Three‐dimensional (3D) printing is an extremely advanced technology to design and modify the structure of batteries and provides unlimited possibilities for the diversified development of energy storage equipment. Herein, by utilizing 3D printing technology, carbon nanotube (CNT) is coated by MnO2 to form a flexible CNT@MnO2 ink as a cathode for flexible aqueous micro‐ZIBs for the first time and zinc powder ink is used as an anode due to its high flexibility and bendability. The Zn//CNT@MnO2 flexible battery shows a stable capacity of 63 μAh cm−2 at 0.4 mA cm−2. When the battery is bent in different states, the maximum capacity loss compared with the initial value is only 2.72%, indicating its stability. This study shows the potential of 3D printing technology in the development of flexible manganese‐based ZIBs.

Investigating the Potential of 3D Printing Technology on Spare Parts Business for Supply Chain Management in Appliance Industry

3D printing is a process used to fabricate three-dimensional objects based on the digitally controlled deposition of successive layers of material until a final structure is created. This research presents a case study in which two models were built to estimate the operation cost of a spare parts business for an appliance manufacturing company: a base model and an alternate benchmark model in which spare parts are supplied by the traditional manufacturing method or 3D printing. With the developed models, this research compares the total inventory cost of ownership and the number of suppliers for two supply chain management scenarios. Further, a third model (hybrid cost model) was established where spare parts are supplied partially by traditional manufacturing and partially by 3D printing according to maximize cost savings. The cost analysis from the three models concludes that the mixed model shows the best outcome for simplifying supply management complexity and ultimately reducing total cost of spare parts inventory. This case study can help appliance industries to assess and decide if 3D printing is a feasible production method for spare parts in terms of supply chain management strategy.

3D printed zeolite-Y for removing heavy metals from water

Zeolites, in the form of monolithic and well-defined structures, offer great opportunity as potential adsorbents to remediate various environmental pollutants. In this work, zeolite-Y structures were fabricated via 3D printing technique and their potential was demonstrated for removing toxic heavy metals from wastewater. Using a lab-scale column-type configuration, the mesoporous 3D printed zeolite structures were tested as adsorbents for heavy metals such as lead and copper that are known toxic pollutants normally present in the variety of industrial wastewaters. The results indicate that 3D printed zeolite-Y structures can reduce the concentration of lead and copper by more than 90% under optimal pH and low flow rate conditions. In addition, the structures remained stable with a repeatable performance after several water treatment cycles. This study, therefore, demonstrates the potential of 3D printing technology to fabricate zeolites in the desired geometries that can be employed in the continuous flow systems for wastewater treatment and other similar applications.

Exploring the Potential of 3D Printing Technology in Landscape Design Process

Advances in 3D printing technology are giving rise to attempts to utilize the technology in various fields, including landscape design. However, exploring the potential of 3D printing technology has been largely neglected in the context of landscape design and education. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the implication of 3D printing technology for both education and practice in landscape design. We analyzed the literature and examined the current state of 3D printing technology. We also conducted case studies with secondary school students and landscape practitioners to assess the implementation of the technology. Secondary school students demonstrated positive responses, such as increased interest and participation and improvement of understanding, through workshops using 3D-printed models. The semi-structured interviews with landscape practitioners on the implication of the technology confirmed the limitations of 3D printing in terms of cost, delivery time, scale, and level of detail.

3D Printing Applications for Radiology: An Overview.

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies are part of additive manufacturing processes and are used to manufacture a 3D physical model from a digital computer-aided design model as per the required shape and size. These technologies are now used for advanced radiology applications by providing all information through 3D physical model. It provides innovation in radiology for clinical applications, treatment planning, procedural simulation, medical and patient education. Radiological advancements have been made in diagnosis and communication through medical digital imaging techniques like computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging. These images are converted into Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine in Standard Triangulate Language file format, easily printable in 3D printing technologies. This 3D model provides in-depth information about pathologic and anatomic states. It is useful to create new opportunities related to patient care. This article discusses the potential of 3D printing technology in radiology. The steps involved in 3D printing for radiology are discussed diagrammatically, and finally identified 12 significant applications of 3D printing technology for radiology with a brief description. A radiologist can incorporate this technology to fulfil different challenges such as training, planning, guidelines, and better communications.