8. Conclusions

Industries are moving toward the implementation of 3D printing as a manufacturing process because it facilitates the design of complex structures and rapid production of prototypes. AM utilizes a computer-aided design software that allows for the design of architectures with defined porosity and structures at a microscopic level. Because of the easy production of 3D printed prototypes, modeling based on a specific application can be performed to further improve the design of the end product and potentially reduce failure risks. The 3D printing of polymers and polymer composites has significantly progressed over the last 40 years and is expected to increase in the near future. Thermoplastic materials are readily commercially available for use in FDM, SLS, and inkjet processes. Materials like PC, ABS, PLA, ULTEM, and PCLA are commonly used for the manufacturing of tools, prototypes, and items used in the aerospace industry. However, these polymers are not one-size-fits-all types of polymers and are not necessary a good choice for all applications. Thus, research efforts are focused on developing materials that are capable of meeting specific applications. For examples, polymers blended with cultured cells can be used for scaffolds and implants on biological systems. Cells can be obtained from the patient and cultivated in the laboratory, thus producing a material that is less likely to be rejected by the patient. Fillers and additives can be used to generate multifunctional materials with improved mechanical properties. Fillers, such as CNTs and graphene, can be incorporated into the polymer to produce a material that is electrically conductive.

Despite all of the advances in the design and development of new polymeric materials for AM applications, challenges still remain. The availability of polymeric inks suitable for extreme applications, such as low temperature environments, high load pressures, and radiation resistance, is very limited. The development of new materials is necessary to increase the usefulness of polymer 3D printing

technologies. Ideally, some of these composites are recyclable and/or biodegradable to reduce the negative impact plastics have on our environment.

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