Preface

Three-dimensional (3D) printing has witnessed tremendous growth in the past few decades. This technology offers unprecedented freedom to design and fabricate complex geometric parts in a variety of applications in aerospace, automotive, energy, building and construction, microelectronics, and biomedicine industries.

Recent developments and achievements demonstrate that this emerging technology can potentially transform traditional subtractive manufacturing processes. Numerous materials and products consisting of metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites have already been applied in diverse engineering applications.

This book presents and discusses the recent developments and applications of 3D printing in different fields such as biomedicine, health care, electronics, energy storage, and environmental remediation. It highlights advancements in 3D printing technology and offers a platform for materials researchers and scientists to share outstanding research advances in this discipline.

I take this opportunity to thank all the contributing authors, co-authors, and publication staff from IntechOpen for their efforts in preparing this book. I hope that the new research and knowledge presented herein will be the foundation for the innovation of materials and technologies for humankind. I hope that readers enjoy this book and that it will serve as an aid in creating and printing exciting new materials with unique properties.

> **Dr. Ashutosh Sharma** Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ajou University, Suwon, South Korea

**1**

Section 1

Introduction to 3D Printing

Section 1
