Post-Processing of 3D-Printed Polymers

Abstract

Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is an advancement over traditional formative manufacturing methods. It can increase efficiency in manufacturing operations highlighting advantages such as rapid prototyping, reduction of waste, reduction of manufacturing time and cost, and increased flexibility in a production setting. The additive manufacturing (AM) process consists of five steps: (1) preparation of 3D models for printing (designing the part/object), (2) conversion to STL file, (3) slicing and setting of 3D printing parameters, (4) actual printing, and (5) finishing/post-processing methods. Very often, the 3D printed part is sufficient by itself without further post-printing processing. However, many applications still require some forms of post-processing, especially those for industrial applications. This review focuses on the importance of different finishing/post-processing methods for 3D-printed polymers. Different 3D printing technologies and materials are considered in presenting the authors’ perspective. The advantages and disadvantages of using these methods are also discussed together with the cost and time in doing the post-processing activities. Lastly, this review also includes discussions on the enhancement of properties such as electrical, mechanical, and chemical, and other characteristics such as geometrical precision, durability, surface properties, and aesthetic value with post-printing processing. Future perspectives is also provided towards the end of this review.

Establishment of An Academic Makerspace at the Bataan Peninsula State University: Prospects and Challenges

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3D Printing Polymeric Materials for Robots with Embedded Systems

“…The biggest hindrance in integrating 3D printing with robotics is still the availability of 3D printing materials and their characteristics. Giving importance and much consideration to incorporating post-processing operations from the design phase may also increase the use cases of 3D printing in this field [144].…”

Advancing flexible electronics and additive manufacturing

“…There are several techniques in post-processing 3D-printed polymers 46) but the most common method for complex 3Dprinted structures is the removal of support structures. 47) The support structures are usually made from different materials and can be dissolved from the completed object post-printing.…”