Potential Of 3D Printing Technology Research Articles

3D-Printed Multi-Axis Alignment Airgap Dielectric Layer for Flexible Capacitive Pressure Sensor

Flexible pressure sensors are increasingly recognized for their potential use in wearable electronic devices, attributed to their sensitivity and broad pressure response range. Introducing surface microstructures can notably enhance sensitivity; however, the pressure response range remains constrained by the limited volume of the compressible structure. To overcome this limitation, this study implements an aligned airgap structure fabricated using 3D printing technology. This structure, designed with a precisely aligned triaxial airgap configuration, offers high deformability under pressure, substantially broadening the pressure response range and improving sensitivity. This study analyzes the key structural parameters—the number of axes and pore size—that influence the compressibility and stability of the dielectric material. The results indicate that the capacitive pressure sensor with an aligned airgap structure, manufactured via 3D printing, exhibits a wide operating pressure range (50 Pa to 500 kPa), rapid response time (100 ms), wide limit of detection (50 Pa), and approximately 21 times enhancement in sensitivity (~0.019 kPa−1 within 100 kPa) compared with conventional bulk structures. Furthermore, foot pressure monitoring trials for wearable sensor applications demonstrated exceptional performance, indicating the sensor’s suitability as a wearable device for detecting plantar pressure. These findings advocate for the potential of 3D printing technology to supplant traditional sensor manufacturing processes.

Exploring the potential of construction-compatible materials in structural supercapacitors for energy storage in the built environment

As urbanization accelerates, the need for innovative solutions that integrate energy storage within the built environment (BE) becomes increasingly vital for sustainable and multifunctional infrastructure. This review paper delves into the pioneering concept of structural supercapacitors (SSCs), which seamlessly embed energy storage capabilities directly into construction materials such as ordinary portland cement, geopolymers, magnesium phosphate cement, aluminate cement, bricks, wood, and polymers. These materials are readily available and possess inherent structural strength, making them ideal candidates for functionalization as energy storage devices. SSCs rely on the combination of mechanical strength and electrochemical capabilities, allowing structures to serve dual functions—bearing mechanical loads while storing and releasing electrical energy. This review discusses the key components of SSCs, including conductive fillers, electrodes, and electrolytes, and evaluates their electrochemical and mechanical performance. Several critical research gaps have been identified, including the need for alternative conductive fillers to improve ionic conductivity and specific capacitance, advanced additives to enhance multifunctionality and optimization of the interaction between fillers and substrates. Additionally, post-curing treatments and the control of porosity and microstructure require further exploration to balance electrochemical performance with mechanical robustness. Challenges related to integrating SSCs into practical applications, such as environmental durability and mechanical load-bearing capacity, are also highlighted. Furthermore, the potential of 3D printing technology to create customizable SSC structures is identified as a promising area for future research. This review contributes to advancing SSCs and their potential integration into sustainable infrastructure by highlighting the gaps and future directions of the existing literature.

3D constructing: Exploring the potential of 3D concrete and clay printing with generative design for architectural innovation

The architectural and construction sectors are experiencing a transformative shift with the advent of 3D constructing. This research delves into the potential of 3D printing technologies when combined with generative design principles to reshape traditional construction methods. Through a comprehensive lens, the study evaluates the generative design workflow, decision-making algorithms, machines capacities and material considerations. Results indicate that, when synergized with generative design, these technologies offer sustainable, efficient, and tailored solutions. The use of accesible materials, such as clay and cement, demonstrates their superiority over conventional alternatives. However, the challenge lies in harmoniously integrating these innovations into architectural practice, ensuring a balance between cutting-edge advancements and practical application. Conclusively, this new approach heralds a future of sustainable and user-centric design, but its full potential can only be tapped with a holistic strategy that encompasses both design and material facets.

DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF GASTRO-RETENTIVE FLOATING TABLET CASE USING FDM 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY

The aim of this research was to examine a novel Fused Deposition Model (FDM) 3D Printing Method for creating a gastro-retentive floating tablet case containing metronidazole compressed tablet. Metronidazole was employed as a model drug and successfully integrated into floating tablet case composed of polyvinyl alcohol filament. The tablet design was made by AutoCAD software and the slicing of tablet design was carried out. To evaluate the formulation parameters for 3D printed tablet case, various orifice sizes were optimized. These 3D printed tablet cases were assessed for weight variation, friability, hardness, in vitro floating test and in vitro dissolution studies. All results met acceptable criteria. Notably, the 0.5 mm orifice case floated on 0.1 N HCI media surface for over 345 min, displaying zero - order drug release. Thus, this work demonstrates the potential of 3D Printing technology as an innovative platform for gastroretentive floating tablets to promote a modern era of personalized medicine.

Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Fabrication of 3D Printed Technology in Pharmaceutical Development and Its Application

The concept of personalized medicine tailored to individual patients has garnered considerable attention recently, particularly in exploring the potential of 3D printing technology within the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. 3D printing involves the layer-by-layer creation of three-dimensional objects from digital designs. This review aim to provide an in-depth discussion focusing on 3D printing technology, its role in drug delivery systems, and its application in the pharmaceutical product development process. Commonly categorized by material layering methods, 3D printers typically fall into inkjet, extrusion, or laser-based systems. The review delves into these different types of 3D printers and their diverse applications in drug delivery across various sectors. Additionally, it encompasses a selection of recent research conducted in the pharmaceutical realm concerning 3D printing for drug delivery applications and challenges. Keywords: 3D printed formulation, Laser based printing, inkjet printing, extrusion-based printing

A review on integration of carbon fiber and polymer matrix composites in 3D printing technology

Three-dimensional (3D) printing applications obtained by combining the lightness, high strength, and durability of carbon fiber with polymer matrix composites provide various industrial advantages. These advantages offer new design and production opportunities for automotive, aviation, space, medical devices, and many other industrial fields. This review article discusses material innovations in 3D printing technology with a focus on the integration of carbon fiber and polymer matrix composites. After examining the current state and future potential of 3D printing technology, the properties and advantages of carbon fiber and polymer matrix composites and the difficulties encountered with their integration into the 3D printing process were examined. In conclusion, this review article comprehensively discusses the current status, advantages, challenges, and future directions on the integration of carbon fiber and polymer matrix composites in 3D printing technology. This article can be an important resource for industry professionals and researchers in materials science and engineering.

Development and characterization of 3D printed fish gelatin and vegetable blends as nutritious meal for dysphagic patients

Dysphagia, increasingly prevalent among the aging population, poses significant nutritional challenges. 3D printing technology offers an innovative solution by creating visually appealing and appetizing dysphagia diets, offering new avenues for enhancing the dining experience of individuals with swallowing difficulties. This study explores the feasibility of using 3D printing to produce nutritionally dense meals for individuals with dysphagia. Techniques like SEM and FTIR were employed to examine ingredient interactions. Rheological properties and printing behavior were analyzed, revealing that xanthan gum (XG) as a thickener increases yield stress, elastic modulus (G′), and apparent viscosities of the ink compositions. Modest additions of XG (0.23% and 0.44%) improved the microstructure and mechanical properties, while higher concentrations (XG-0.77%) caused phase separation and reduced mechanical strength. The 3D printed products were evaluated according to IDDSI guidelines and sensory tests. XG-0.44% samples showed precise printing, excellent self-support, smooth textures, and favorable sensory evaluations, qualifying as level 4-pureed/extremely thick dysphagia diets. This study highlights the potential of 3D printing technology in creating nutritious and appealing meals for individuals with dysphagia.

3D Printing in Civil Engineering: Pioneering Affordable Housing Solutions

The escalating global housing crisis necessitates innovative solutions that streamline construction processes while enhancing sustainability and reducing costs. This paper explores the transformative potential of 3D printing technologies in the construction of affordable housing within the field of civil engineering. By examining the technical, economic, and environmental dimensions of 3D printed buildings, the study assesses their scalability for mass housing projects and discusses the significant advantages such as reduced waste, increased precision, and the utilization of recycled materials. The paper also highlights the major challenges to widespread adoption, including regulatory issues, material limitations, and workforce training needs. Through various international case studies, it demonstrates how 3D printing is being successfully implemented to address diverse housing needs and align with Sustainable Development Goals. The study concludes with strategic recommendations for overcoming existing barriers and maximizing the technology’s benefits, outlining a future where 3D printing could fundamentally alter the construction landscape.

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.

Voltage-assisted 3D printing of polymer composite dielectric films with low energy loss and high energy storage density

PVDF-based polymers have garnered significant attention in the field of high-power density electrostatic capacitors due to their exceptional dielectric strength. However, their practical applications are constrained by low charge-discharge efficiency (η) and energy storage density (Ue), which stem from high ferroelectric relaxation and low breakdown strength (Eb). Here, a hydrogenated glassy polymer poly(styrene-methyl methacrylate-methylallyl alcohol) (PSMA) is designed and synthesized to be homogeneously distributed in PVDF through voltage-assisted 3D printing-hot pressing, resulting in a flexible composite film. The findings demonstrate that PSMA, rich in hydrogen bonds and high modulus strength, effectively mitigates the ferroelectric phase transition of PVDF to enhance η. Additionally, the voltage-assisted 3D printing process induces an entropy gain mechanism, facilitating the uniform distribution of the two phases and enhancing the interfacial properties for enhancing Eb. Remarkably, the study achieves prominent growth in energy storage performance, with Ue and η reaching 18.1 J/cm3 and 80 % at 525 MV/m, respectively. These remarkable results highlight the potential of 3D printing technology in enhancing the energy storage performance of PVDF-based dielectrics.

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.

Crafting Mathematical Minds by Engaging Braille-Tangible 3in1 3D Printed Geoboards Module for Visually Impaired Children

Worldwide, visual impairment and blindness stand as prevalent health challenges, exerting substantial effects on individuals and the communities they belong to. These conditions pose significant disabilities for visually impaired individuals and their immediate surroundings. Children with visual impairments encounter numerous challenges in their daily lives and learning, unlike their sighted counterparts. Nevertheless, despite these obstacles, they depend significantly on their tactile and auditory senses to glean information from their surroundings. Meanwhile, mathematics poses a unique challenge for students, as its abstract concepts can be difficult to visualize, potentially diminishing interest in the subject. Recognizing the potential of 3D printing technology to enhance visualization and interaction with three-dimensional models, this study aims to develop a module that combines mathematics in Braille with 3D printed models. The goal is to facilitate a more accessible and engaging learning experience for visually impaired children, fostering a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. The module incorporates tactile games designed to improve focus and study habits, thereby addressing the specific needs of visually impaired learners. The module comprises 3 games as 3in1 Geoboard: Numerical Jumble, Pinpoint Placer and Geo Art. The game tools employed in this module underwent 3D design through computer-aided design (CAD) software, integrating Braille code within mathematical constructs tailored to the requirements of visually impaired children and their mathematics curriculum. Subsequently, the 3D model was transformed into a tangible object using a 3D printer. These printed objects served as educational tools within the development of an integrated module encompassing both 4IR elements and Braille components. Instructions for the game were seamlessly integrated to facilitate straightforward delivery of module content by educators. Therefore, adopting a game-based learning module approach not only proves effective for individuals who are blind but also provides visually impaired children with a practical avenue to learn Braille and enhance their understanding of mathematical concepts. This educational approach holds particular significance for visually impaired children in their daily lives while greatly revolutionize educator-coordinated learning of mathematics through engaging education for the framework of 10-10 MySTIE Socio-economic drivers.

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.