Background

The current practice in additive manufacturing (with plastic as a base material) is to use the same material properties in all directions, even though they have only been determined in one direction. This approach is valid and justified for other materials (i.e., metals) which do not show a high degree of anisotropy. However, the nature of the printing process (layer-by-layer structure) clearly shows that the final product will have highly anisotropic material properties. Moreover, combining two different materials (i.e., two different plastics or using carbon fibers) will further increase the anisotropy. The lack of data on material properties of 3D manufactured parts gives problems to designers and it does not exploit all benefits of 3D printing technology.

Technology Overview

Researchers at INL have developed a solution to this lack of data. This research performs experimental and numerical analyses in order to optimize anisotropic material properties of single and dual-material 3D manufactured parts. This is a challenging task because of a wide variety of processing parameters. Thus, a database of material properties of single and dual-material 3D printed parts that can be used in design and simulation can solve the problem. The key inputs would be accurately measured anisotropic mechanical properties of 3D printed parts while the reliable and accurate designs and numerical models would be outputs. INL’s research will provide more information and a better understanding of anisotropic material properties of 3D printed parts using single or dual materials. This information will eliminate the current problems in design and provide more accurate numerical modeling.

Benefits

Eliminates current problems in design.
Provides more accurate numerical modeling.

Applications

Additive manufacturing engineers and designers:
- Industrial design, aerospace, military, engineering, architecture, construction, medical, etc.)

Opportunity

Idaho National Laboratory (INL), managed and operated by Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC (BEA), is offering the opportunity to enter into a license and/or collaborative research agreement to commercialize this 3D printing material optimization technology. This technology transfer opportunity is part of a dedicated effort to convert government-funded research into job opportunities, businesses and ultimately an improved way of life for the American people.

INL is seeking to license the above intellectual property to a company with a demonstrated ability to bring such inventions to the market. Exclusive rights in defined fields of use may be available. Added value is placed on relationships with small businesses, start-up companies, and general entrepreneurship opportunities.

Optimized Anisotropic Material Properties of Single and Dual Material 3D Printed Parts

Patents

IP Status

Seeking