This paper reports, for the first time in the literature, a preliminary study to investigate the feasibility of utilizing waste algae powder (byproducts of biofuel manufacturing from algae) in binder jetting 3D printing to produce environmentally friendly products. In this study, the algae powder’s morphology and particle size distribution were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and particle size analyzer, respectively, and the flowability was assessed through apparent density and repose angle. The algae powder successfully printed the cylindrical, cubic, and gyroid parts on a binder jetting 3D printer. Results show that it is feasible to print parts with binder jetting 3D printing utilizing waste algae powder. The use of waste algae powder in additive manufacturing offers a novel approach to upcycling waste algae powder into valuable products for various applications such as packaging and construction.
Laser Additive Manufacturing (LAM), an avant-garde technology in manufacturing, harnesses the precision of laser energy to fabricate intricate parts through the meticulous process of melting and subsequently depositing layers of metal powders. Among the esteemed materials employed, 316L stainless steel (316L SS) stands out for its unparalleled corrosion resistance, exceptional high-temperature tolerance, and remarkable creep strength, making it a ubiquitous choice in the aerospace, medical, and nuclear power sectors. LAM has distinguished itself in the fabrication of intricate 316L SS components, yet enhancing the metallurgical bonding strength within these structures remains a pivotal area of ongoing research. This research endeavor delves into the intricate microstructure and mechanical properties that characterize the interface between the LAM-produced 316L SS cladding layer and its substrate, further investigating how varying laser energy densities (E) subtly influence these properties within the additive manufactured components. Remarkably, the interface region exhibits a tensile strength of 615.1 MPa, surpassing that of both the deposited layer and the substrate by 5.4% and 7.4% respectively, underscoring a robust bond between the two layers. This investigation not only sheds light on the unique process capabilities and performance merits of LAM in crafting 316L SS cladding layers but also pioneers novel approaches and conceptual frameworks for bolstering the metallurgical bonding strength of this esteemed material. As such, it constitutes a treasure trove of insights for subsequent research endeavors and practical applications across related disciplines.
Providing rapid, efficient, inexpensive, and resilient solutions is an eminent and urgent need for emergency relief conditions, mainly and increasingly driven by the impacts of climate change. Under such disastrous circumstances, the current practice involves preparation, dispatching and managing significant amounts of materials, resources, manpower, and transportation of basic needs, which can be hindered remarkably by infrastructure damage and massive loss of lives. However, an emerging technology known as 3D printing (3DP) can play a significant role and rapidly bring unlimited innovative solutions in such conditions with much lesser resources to meet the necessities of large populations affected. Considering the recent progress of 3DP technology and applications in different industrial and consumer sectors, this study aims to provide an analysis of the status and current progress of 3DP technology in various fields to understand and present its potential for readiness and response to disasters, emergency and relief need driven by climate change. Secondly, this study also presents a sustainability assessment of 3DP technology for such cases to evaluate economic, environmental, and social impacts. Finally, policies and strategies are suggested to adapt 3DP technology in different sectors to prepare for large-scale emergencies.
The rapid development of manufacturing sector has created a platform for implementing novel technologies such as additive manufacturing (AM). AM or 3D printing, has generated a lot of interests in biomedical applications during the last decade with a variety of novel printed polymeric materials. 3D printing fabricates 3D object with layer-by-layer processing through computer-controlled programming software. It has innumerable applications including electronics, aerospace engineering, automobile industry, architecture and medical sectors. One of the most demanding sectors of 3D printing is biomedical engineering applications such as medicines, drug delivery system, surgical instruments, orthopedics, scaffolds, implants etc. The clinical ramifications of AM-made healthcare goods are being catalyzed by recent developments in biomaterials. This review paper aims to explain the concept of 3D printing and its significance in developing polymeric materials for biomedical applications. An inclusive survey has been conducted on the various techniques involved in printing the biomedical devices. The proper selection of polymeric materials is important for biomedical applications, especially from 3D printing point of view and this vital parameter has been considered in this review paper. According to our findings, more breakthroughs in biomaterials, are required for the success and expansion of AM technology in the biomedical applications.