3D-Printed Ceramics with Aligned Micro-Platelets
A.J. Myles, A. R. Griffith, M. Faisal Riyad, Yuxin Jiao, Mohammadreza Mahmoudi, Majid Minary‐Jolandan
Abstract
Biological materials, such as seashells, exhibit distinct microstructures in which (bio)ceramic micro-platelets are aligned, resulting in desirable mechanical properties when combined with other materials in the composite form. The manufacturing of synthetic counterparts often involves various methods capable of large-scale particle alignment, such as freeze-casting, tape casting, and magnetic assembly. However, these methods are often limited to simple geometries or require specialized printers with magnetic control capability and magnetized platelets. In this study, we report on 3D-printed alumina with aligned micro-platelets achieved using the vat photopolymerization process. Notably, our approach relies solely on the shear flow in the resin induced by the motion of the printer build plate in lower-cost printers without a doctor blade. This process holds significant potential for the development of ceramic and composite parts with controlled microstructures, particularly for the manufacturing of bioinspired structural and functional composites.