https://doi.org/10.15255/KUI.2024.044
Published: Kem. Ind. 74 (1-2) (2025) 43–56
Paper reference number: KUI-44/2024
Paper type: Review
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Additive Manufacturing in Chemical Engineering. Part One: Processes for Polymers

D. Vrsaljko, M. Marković, I. K. Cingesar and F. Car

Abstract

Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D-printing, is a set of processes that create objects by adding materials directly from digital models. Additive manufacturing makes it possible to create parts by adding material exactly where the material is needed, thereby reducing waste and enabling the creation of objects with complex geometries that are difficult or impossible to achieve with conventional techniques. The application of additive manufacturing is also increasingly important in chemical engineering, and it is associated with four areas of activity: the end use of additively manufactured objects; the production of pharmaceutical products; the development of new materials; and the implementation of 3D printers within the frame of Industry 4.0. This paper provides an overview of additive manufacturing processes used for the production of polymer products and their application in chemical engineering. Technologies such as multi jet fusion (MJF), stereolithography (SLA), and digital light processing (DLP) are creating new opportunities for precise and sustainable manufacturing, while simpler methods like fused filament fabrication (FFF) ensure broad accessibility. With further advancements, additive manufacturing will continue to play a key role in transforming industrial practices, especially within the framework of Industry 4.0.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License

Keywords

additive manufacturing, chemical engineering, polymers, FFF, SLA, DLP