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Published on: September 12, 2018
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Recent advances in lignin-based 3D printing materials: A mini-review
Zhouyuanye Wan1, Hongjie Zhang2, Meihong Niu1
1Liaoning Key Lab of Lignocellulose Chemistry and BioMaterials, Liaoning Collaborative Innovation Center for Lignocellulosic Biorefinery, College of Light Industry and Chemical Engineering, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, China.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
|September 3, 2023
Summary
Sustainable 3D printing utilizes lignin, a renewable biomass, to create eco-friendly materials. This approach reduces waste and carbon emissions, offering a greener alternative to traditional manufacturing and fossil fuels.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biotechnology
- Sustainable Manufacturing
Background:
- Increasing global demand for energy and materials strains fossil resources.
- Overreliance on fossil fuels causes environmental pollution, climate change, and ecosystem damage.
- Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers energy efficiency and reduced waste compared to traditional manufacturing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in lignin-based materials for 3D printing.
- To explore the potential of lignin as a sustainable feedstock for additive manufacturing.
- To discuss challenges and prospects for industrializing lignin-based 3D printing.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent studies on lignin derivatives in photo-curing 3D printing.
- Examination of lignin-based photosensitive prepolymers, reactive diluents, photo-initiators, and additives.
- Analysis of lignin-based thermoplastic polymers for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM).
Main Results:
- Lignin shows significant potential for developing low-carbon, environmentally friendly 3D printing materials.
- Lignin derivatives are applicable in both photo-curing and FDM 3D printing processes.
- Research indicates successful preparation and performance of various lignin-based 3D printing components.
Conclusions:
- Lignin is a promising renewable resource for sustainable 3D printing applications.
- Further research and development are needed to overcome challenges in industrialization.
- Lignin-based 3D printing contributes to reducing carbon footprint and promoting sustainable development.

