Laminated Object Manufacturing of Ceramic‐Based Materials

TLDR

Additive manufacturing, especially laminated object manufacturing (LOM), enables rapid, cost‑effective production of complex parts from millimeters to meters and has already successfully fabricated ceramic‑based materials with advanced features. The study evaluates the applicability of LOM for near‑net‑shaping ceramic‑based materials. LOM uses an open workspace to process nontoxic, highly filled sheet materials at high speed, with optional local functionalization for conductivity or stability and machine adjustments to improve economics, as demonstrated by prior ceramic‑based LOM successes. Ceramic‑based materials produced by LOM combine high temperature resistance, mechanical strength, and light weight, making them suitable for demanding applications.

Abstract

Since their inception, additive manufacturing (AM) techniques have been the go‐to methods for obtaining highly complex‐shaped rapid prototypes (RPs) and specialized parts, which were produced in small lot sizes. The AM technique of laminated object manufacturing (LOM) is an immensely convenient and cost‐effective method for quickly producing millimeter‐sized to meter‐sized parts, while incorporating micrometer‐sized constructive features. LOM machines offer an open work space, within which nontoxic and highly filled sheet materials can be processed at a high production velocity. The unique property profile of ceramic‐based materials from LOM may be indispensable for applications calling for materials that unite high temperature resistance, mechanical strength, and light weight. Optionally, local material functionalization may engender the electrical conductivity, chemical stability, ferroelectricity, radiation shielding, or filter membrane stability of a limited portion of the material. Herein, a detailed evaluation of the applicability of LOM in the near net shaping ceramic‐based materials is presented. Optionally technical adjustments for the LOM process and extensions of the LOM machine configuration can improve the economic feasibility its operation. Previously successful LOM‐printed ceramic‐based materials are showcased within a comprehensive overview on the state of the art and potential novel composite materials are presented.