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Multimaterial magnetically assisted 3D printing of composite materials
Dimitri Kokkinis1, Manuel Schaffner1, André R Studart1
1Complex Materials, Department of Materials, ETH Zürich, Zürich 8093, Switzerland.
Nature Communications
|October 24, 2015
Summary
This study introduces a novel multimaterial magnetically assisted 3D printing (MM-3D printing) platform. It enables precise control over particle orientation, creating advanced functional materials with complex microstructures.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Additive Manufacturing
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- 3D printing is widely used for complex geometries.
- Multimaterial printing expands design possibilities beyond shape.
- Controlling microstructural features is key for advanced materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel 3D printing approach for enhanced material design.
- To demonstrate control over anisotropic particle orientation during printing.
- To explore a new dimension in the 3D printing design space.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a direct ink-writing process with magnetized stiff platelets.
- Applied low magnetic fields to control particle orientation in deposited inks.
- Employed multimaterial dispensers and a two-component mixing unit for composition control.
Main Results:
- Achieved precise control over the orientation of anisotropic particles.
- Demonstrated the ability to create materials with controlled microstructural features.
- Established a five-dimensional design space for material manufacturing.
Conclusions:
- The MM-3D printing platform enables the creation of functional heterogeneous materials.
- This technology opens avenues for manufacturing materials with biologically relevant microstructures.
- Magnetic field-assisted particle orientation is a powerful tool in additive manufacturing.
