Stereolithographic 3D Printing of Ceramics: Challenges and Opportunities for Structural Integrity

This article reviews the current activities at Montanuniversität Leoben on design, processing, and characterization of 3D printed advanced ceramics using lithography-based manufacturing technology. An overview challenges opportunities offered to improve mechanical properties printing is given. Their brittle failure analyzed within framework linear elastic fracture mechanics, considering specific aspects additive manufacturing. Several issues associated with process are addressed, such as surface quality, geometry control, influence directions, well need establish testing protocols for parts. Based layer-by-layer capabilities stereolithographic process, bio-inspired material design concepts discussed aiming enhance resistance 3D-printed ceramics. By tailoring layer architecture microstructure parts, high strength may be achieved.