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New Advances in Additive Manufacturing Technology

A special issue of Materials (ISSN 1996-1944). This special issue belongs to the section "Manufacturing Processes and Systems".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 March 2024) | Viewed by 11082

Special Issue Editors

Department of Enterprise Engineering “Mario Lucertini”, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Roma, Italy
Interests: manufacturing systems; additive manufacturing; finishing of complex components; laser processes; molding of thermoplastics; advanced materials; high-performance coatings
Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
Interests: functional neurosurgery; cerebrovascular disease; neuro-oncology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Additive manufacturing is a pillar of Industry 4.0. This technology allows engineers to obtain very complex components, which are impossible to fabricate with other technologies. The advantages in terms of geometrical fidelity, flexibility in materials, product performance, weight reduction, and customization have attracted an increasing amount of interest in many sectors of industry and in the medical field.

This Special Issue aims to offer an exchange platform for researchers and practitioners to address relevant advances in additive manufacturing.

In this Issue, modern trends of technologies, new applications in industry and medicine, strategies, and manufacturing approaches, including process optimization, innovative materials, product properties, surface finishing, and treatments, are highlighted and discussed.

Scientific contributions dealing with computational approaches for modeling the process, environmental impact analysis, and other manufacturing processes to establish differences and possible similarities are welcome.

It is my pleasure to invite you to submit a manuscript for this Special Issue. Full papers, communications, and reviews are welcome.

Dr. Federica Trovalusci
Dr. Alba Scerrati
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Materials is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • additive manufacturing
  • medical applications
  • prosthesis, surgical tools, and phantom
  • design for AM
  • modeling
  • process optimization
  • materials (polymers and metals)
  • customized materials
  • surface finish
  • characterization and performance

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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11 pages, 2032 KiB  
Article
NiTi–Cu Bimetallic Structure Fabrication through Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing
by Shalini Singh, Elena Demidova, Natalia Resnina, Sergey Belyaev, Palani Anand Iyamperumal, Christ Prakash Paul and Konda Gokuldoss Prashanth
Materials 2024, 17(5), 1006; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ma17051006 - 22 Feb 2024
Viewed by 487
Abstract
This study endeavors to comprehensively explore and elucidate the seamless integration of NiTi shape memory alloys (SMAs) into multifaceted applications through the utilization of novel joining techniques. The primary focus lies in the utilization of wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) to deposit Nitinol [...] Read more.
This study endeavors to comprehensively explore and elucidate the seamless integration of NiTi shape memory alloys (SMAs) into multifaceted applications through the utilization of novel joining techniques. The primary focus lies in the utilization of wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) to deposit Nitinol (NiTi) onto Copper (Cu), thereby introducing a transformative approach for their integration into electro-mechanical systems and beyond. Through a detailed examination of the NiTi/Cu bimetallic junction, using advanced analytical techniques including SEM, XRD, and DSC analyses, this research aims to unravel the intricate complexities inherent within the interface. The SEM images and X-ray patterns obtained reveal a complex and nuanced interface characterized by a broad mixed zone comprising various constituents, including Ti(Ni,Cu)2, pure Cu, Ti2(Ni,Cu)3 precipitates, and Ni-rich NiTi precipitates. The DSC results, showcasing low-intensity broad peaks during thermal cycling, underscore the inherent challenges in demonstrating functional properties within the NiTi/Cu system. Recognizing the critical importance of an enhanced martensitic transformation, this study delves into the effects of heat treatment. Calorimetric curves post-annealing at 500 °C exhibit distinct transformation peaks, shedding light on the intricate influence of NiTi layer distribution within the junction. The optimal heat treatment parameters for NiTi/Cu junction restoration are meticulously explored and determined at 500 °C for a duration of 12 h. Furthermore, the study offers valuable insights into optimizing NiTi–Cu joints, with micro-hardness values reaching 485 HV and compressive strength scaling up to 650 MPa. These significant findings not only hold promise for diverse applications across various industries but also pave the way for further research directions and explorations into the realm of SMA integration and advanced joining methodologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Additive Manufacturing Technology)
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14 pages, 8113 KiB  
Article
Fabrication of Compliant and Transparent Hollow Cerebral Vascular Phantoms for In Vitro Studies Using 3D Printing and Spin–Dip Coating
by Beatrice Bisighini, Pierluigi Di Giovanni, Alba Scerrati, Federica Trovalusci and Silvia Vesco
Materials 2023, 16(1), 166; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ma16010166 - 24 Dec 2022
Viewed by 1772
Abstract
Endovascular surgery through flow diverters and coils is increasingly used for the minimally invasive treatment of intracranial aneurysms. To study the effectiveness of these devices, in vitro tests are performed in which synthetic vascular phantoms are typically used to reproduce in vivo conditions. [...] Read more.
Endovascular surgery through flow diverters and coils is increasingly used for the minimally invasive treatment of intracranial aneurysms. To study the effectiveness of these devices, in vitro tests are performed in which synthetic vascular phantoms are typically used to reproduce in vivo conditions. In this paper, we propose a manufacturing process to obtain compliant and transparent hollow vessel replicas to assess the mechanical behaviour of endovascular devices and perform flow measurements. The vessel models were obtained in three main steps. First, a mould was 3D-printed in a water-soluble material; two techniques, fusion deposition modelling and stereolithography, were compared for this purpose. Then, the mould was covered with a thin layer of silicone through spin–dip coating, and finally, when the silicone layer solidified, it was dissolved in a hot water bath. The final models were tested in terms of the quality of the final results, the mechanical properties of the silicone, thickness uniformity, and transparency properties. The proposed approach makes it possible to produce models of different sizes and complexity whose transparency and mechanical properties are suitable for in vitro experiments. Its applicability is demonstrated through idealised and patient-specific cases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Additive Manufacturing Technology)
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18 pages, 4219 KiB  
Article
Laser Melting Deposition Additive Manufacturing of Ti6Al4V Biomedical Alloy: Mesoscopic In-Situ Flow Field Mapping via Computational Fluid Dynamics and Analytical Modelling with Empirical Testing
by Muhammad Arif Mahmood, Asif Ur Rehman, Fatih Pitir, Metin Uymaz Salamci and Ion N. Mihailescu
Materials 2021, 14(24), 7749; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ma14247749 - 15 Dec 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2725
Abstract
Laser melting deposition (LMD) has recently gained attention from the industrial sectors due to producing near-net-shape parts and repairing worn-out components. However, LMD remained unexplored concerning the melt pool dynamics and fluid flow analysis. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and analytical [...] Read more.
Laser melting deposition (LMD) has recently gained attention from the industrial sectors due to producing near-net-shape parts and repairing worn-out components. However, LMD remained unexplored concerning the melt pool dynamics and fluid flow analysis. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and analytical models have been developed. The concepts of the volume of fluid and discrete element modeling were used for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Furthermore, a simplified mathematical model was devised for single-layer deposition with a laser beam attenuation ratio inherent to the LMD process. Both models were validated with the experimental results of Ti6Al4V alloy single track depositions on Ti6Al4V substrate. A close correlation has been found between experiments and modelling with a few deviations. In addition, a mechanism for tracking the melt flow and involved forces was devised. It was simulated that the LMD involves conduction-mode melt flow only due to the coaxial addition of powder particles. In front of the laser beam, the melt pool showed a clockwise vortex, while at the back of the laser spot location, it adopted an anti-clockwise vortex. During printing, a few partially melted particles tried to enter into the molten pool, causing splashing within the melt material. The melting regime, mushy area (solid + liquid mixture) and solidified region were determined after layer deposition. This research gives an in-depth insight into the melt flow dynamics in the context of LMD printing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Additive Manufacturing Technology)
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15 pages, 6942 KiB  
Article
Additive Manufacturing for Neurosurgery: Digital Light Processing of Individualized Patient-Specific Cerebral Aneurysms
by Stefano Guarino, Enrico Marchese, Gennaro Salvatore Ponticelli, Alba Scerrati, Vincenzo Tagliaferri and Federica Trovalusci
Materials 2021, 14(20), 6057; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ma14206057 - 14 Oct 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1720
Abstract
This study aims at demonstrating the feasibility of reproducing individualized patient-specific three-dimensional models of cerebral aneurysms by using the direct light processing (DLP) 3D printing technique in a low-time and inexpensive way. Such models were used to help neurosurgeons understand the anatomy of [...] Read more.
This study aims at demonstrating the feasibility of reproducing individualized patient-specific three-dimensional models of cerebral aneurysms by using the direct light processing (DLP) 3D printing technique in a low-time and inexpensive way. Such models were used to help neurosurgeons understand the anatomy of the aneurysms together with the surrounding vessels and their relationships, providing, therefore, a tangible supporting tool with which to train and plan surgical operations. The starting 3D models were obtained by processing the computed tomography angiographies and the digital subtraction angiographies of three patients. Then, a 3D DLP printer was used to print the models, and, if acceptable, on the basis of the neurosurgeon’s opinion, they were used for the planning of the neurosurgery operation and patient information. All the models were printed within three hours, providing a comprehensive representation of the cerebral aneurysms and the surrounding structures and improving the understanding of their anatomy and simplifying the planning of the surgical operation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Additive Manufacturing Technology)
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14 pages, 2713 KiB  
Article
Surface Finishing of Additive Manufactured Ti-6Al-4V Alloy: A Comparison between Abrasive Fluidized Bed and Laser Finishing
by Eleonora Atzeni, Silvio Genna, Erica Menna, Gianluca Rubino, Alessandro Salmi and Federica Trovalusci
Materials 2021, 14(18), 5366; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ma14185366 - 17 Sep 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2084
Abstract
Metal additive manufacturing is a major concern for advanced manufacturing industries thanks to its ability to manufacture complex-shaped parts in materials that are difficult to machine using conventional methods. Nowadays, it is increasingly being used in the industrial manufacturing of titanium-alloy components for [...] Read more.
Metal additive manufacturing is a major concern for advanced manufacturing industries thanks to its ability to manufacture complex-shaped parts in materials that are difficult to machine using conventional methods. Nowadays, it is increasingly being used in the industrial manufacturing of titanium-alloy components for aerospace and medical industries; however, the main weakness of structural parts is the fatigue life, which is affected by surface quality, meaning the micro-cracking of small surface defects induced by the manufacturing process. Laser finishing and Abrasive Fluidized Bed are proposed by the authors since they represent cost-effective and environment-friendly alternatives for automated surface finishing. A comparison between these two finishing technologies was established and discussed. Experimental tests investigated both mechanical properties and fatigue performances. The tests also focused on understanding the basic mechanisms involved in fatigue failures of machined Ti-6Al-4V components fabricated via Electron Beam Melting and the effects of operational parameters. X-ray tomography was used to evaluate the internal porosity to better explain the fatigue behaviour. The results demonstrated the capability of Laser finishing and Abrasive Fluidized Beds to improve failure performances. Life Cycle Analysis was additionally performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed technologies in terms of environmental impact and resource consumption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Additive Manufacturing Technology)
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Review

Jump to: Research

25 pages, 13699 KiB  
Review
Advancements in Additive Manufacturing of Tantalum via the Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB/M): A Comprehensive Review
by Aziz Ul Hassan Mohsan and Dongbin Wei
Materials 2023, 16(19), 6419; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ma16196419 - 27 Sep 2023
Viewed by 1014
Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) exhibits a prime increment in manufacturing technology development. The last few decades have witnessed massive improvement in this field of research, including the growth in the process, equipment, and materials. Irrespective of compelling technological advancements, technical challenges provoke the application [...] Read more.
Additive manufacturing (AM) exhibits a prime increment in manufacturing technology development. The last few decades have witnessed massive improvement in this field of research, including the growth in the process, equipment, and materials. Irrespective of compelling technological advancements, technical challenges provoke the application and development of these technologies. Metal additive manufacturing is considered a prime sector of the industrial revolution. Various metal AM techniques, including Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB/M), and Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-EB/M), have been developed according to materials and process classifications. PBF-LB/M is considered one of the most suitable choices for metallic materials. PBF-LB/M of tantalum has become a hot topic of research in the current century owing to the high biocompatibility of tantalum and its high-end safety applications. PBF-LB/M of porous Ta can direct unexplored research prospects in biomedical and orthopedics by adapting mechanical and biomedical properties and pioneering implant designs with predictable features. This review primarily examines the current advancements in the additive manufacturing of tantalum and related alloys using the PBF-LB/M process. The analysis encompasses the evaluation of process parameters, mechanical properties, and potential biological applications. This will offer the reader valuable insights into the present state of PBF-LB/M for tantalum alloys. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Additive Manufacturing Technology)
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