3D Printing Innovation: Creating Paste for Printing Glass and Eggshells
In a groundbreaking development, the Hand and Machine research group at the University of New Mexico has demonstrated the use of paste extrusion 3D printers to print with both glass and eggshell. This innovative approach expands the horizons of additive manufacturing, allowing for the creation of decorative and potentially functional parts from materials traditionally difficult to process.
The process involves creating clay-like pastes from powdered material mixed with binders and water, which are then extruded through a nozzle. For glass, researchers use finely ground glass frit combined with methyl cellulose and xanthan gum as shear-thinning binders. Eggshells, on the other hand, are ground into powder and mixed with the same binders and water.
After extrusion, the printed parts are dried and undergo different post-processing steps depending on the material. Glass parts are fired in a kiln at approximately 750°C to burn away the binders and sinter the frit, causing some controllable shrinkage. Eggshell parts, however, do not require additional processing after drying.
The team developed custom slicing software to handle the unique challenges of paste extrusion. Since starting and stopping extrusion quickly is difficult, the slicer generates toolpaths that minimize material leakage during pauses. To prevent thin glass walls from collapsing during firing, another slicer enforces constant wall thicknesses in the printed object.
This approach has shown remarkable potential, as demonstrated by the team's creation of a biodegradable pot for plants using eggshell paste. A major advantage of parts printed with eggshell paste is their biodegradability, making them an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics.
While the usefulness of the eggshell innovation may not be as significant as that of glass, it still showcases the capabilities of the process. Interestingly, the team has previously used a paste printer to 3D print in metal, further highlighting the versatility of this innovative method.
For those without access to a paste extrusion 3D printer, the team suggests that it can be made. Alternatively, glass can be printed using a laser cutter. However, the results may not be as refined as those achieved with a paste extrusion printer.
This revolutionary method in 3D printing opens up a world of possibilities, leveraging paste extrusion's potential for novel ceramics and biomaterials. As research continues, we can expect to see even more incredible creations emerging from these innovative printers.
[1] Source: Hand and Machine research group, University of New Mexico [5] Source: Journal of 3D Printing in Ceramics and Biomaterials (Vol. 5, Issue 2)
- The innovative application of technology, such as paste extrusion 3D printers, is broadening the scope of additive manufacturing, allowing for the production of decorative and functional items from materials previously challenging to process.
- The team's creation of a biodegradable pot for plants using eggshell paste, a testament to technology's versatility, underscores the potential for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics.
