Researchers at MIT have deciphered the methodology for 3D printing with glass, introducing a novel technique that allows for inorganic composite glass to be printed at reduced temperatures.
New Frontiers in 3D Printing: Glass No Longer Impossible
Dive into the exciting realm of 3D printing as researchers from the Lincoln Laboratory at MIT push boundaries yet again. From creating chocolate delights with the Cocoa Press to printing with an unexpected material - glass, the future of this technology seemingly knows no limit.
Contrary to common belief, making things out of glass the traditional way requires extreme heat for both shaping and annealing. With a machine handling such heat seems unthinkable, but the MIT team has cracked the code with their ingenious new technique. They've found a way to produce glass structures at a significantly lower temperature, making the impossible possible with 3D printing.
The MIT team stresses that their innovative method makes it possible to print glass objects that would be virtually unattainable using conventional means. They envision a future where people can manufacture a wide range of glass devices effortlessly, citing examples like high-temperature electronic components and microfluidic systems.
The glass-based filament they use is referred to as an inorganic composite glass, while the process itself is known as low-temperature additive manufacturing. This material apparently addresses stability issues found in other filaments, all while ensuring flexibility in structural versatility.
In summary, this inorganic composite glass is made of inorganic materials, including nanoparticles and a silicate solution. Once printed, it's placed in an oil bath for curing at 250°C, followed by a clean-up process using an organic solvent. Although we may not see glass filament on store shelves immediately, the potential it promises is thrilling. Until then, we'll keep trucking with our beloved 3D printers that tack plastic and chocolate.
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The MIT team foresees a future where people can effortlessly create a variety of glass devices, such as high-temperature electronic components and microfluidic systems, due to data-and-cloud-computing advancements and the innovative technology in 3D printing gadgets. This new approach to 3D printing, known as low-temperature additive manufacturing, promises to revolutionize the industry, making it possible to produce glass objects that would be almost impossible using traditional methods.
