Layered Manufacturing Material Issues for SDM of Polymers and Ceramics

Abstract

Shape Deposition Manufacturing (SDM) is a solid freeform fabrication process which
\nenables the manufacture of structural parts from engineering materials. This paper discusses the
\nrequirements and constraints for SDM part and sacrificial support materials, including chemical and
\nphysical compatibility, mutual adhesion, low shrinkage, machinability, and support material
\nremovability. Polymers and ceramics processed by SDM include polyurethanes, epoxies,
\npolyurethane foams, photocurable acrylics, and green alumina ceramics. SDM compatible support
\nmaterials include waxes, water-soluble polyacrylate soldermasks, and water-soluble
\nthermoplastics. This paper details the selection of SDM part and support material combinations for
\nthe fabrication of polymer prototypes and polymer molds for ceramic prototyPes.