3D Printed Ceramics Without a Binder
Starting from a Nanopowder, Using a Direct Coagulation Printing Method
Opportunity
Available for Licensing
IP Status
US Utility Patent Pending
Inventors
Tucker Hensen
Troy Holland
Technology Overview
Researchers at Colorado State University have created the first system capable of 3D printing ceramics without a binder, starting from a nanopowder, using a direct coagulation printing method and an extrusion delivery system. This development makes the process more time and energy efficient and is less prone to impurities.
Background
Traditional manufacture of ceramics with subtractive methods is limited due to their hardness and brittleness, inevitably leading to ceramic parts with less-than-optimal geometries. With an additive manufacturing approach, ceramic parts with complex 3D geometries (such as overhands and/or hollow enclosures) become possible. Current art utilizes nanometric precursor powders (such as for slip and tape casting or abrasive polishing) to drastically improve mechanical and electrical properties.
Benefits
- Improved sinterability (>97%)
- Improved flexural strength
- Ability to print virtually any ceramic or metal in nanopowder without binders
- More time and energy efficient
- Less prone to impurities
- Can print in ambient atmosphere
- Resolution as low as 400 micron
Applications
- Heat exchangers
- Condensers
- Biomedical implants
- Chemical reactant vessels
- Electrical isolation applications
Last updated: November 2019.