Technology

Recently, three-dimensional (3D) printing has become vital for the production of various materials for a wide range of industries including military, aerospace, healthcare, automotive and infrastructure applications. Over 93 percent of manufacturing companies now use 3D technologies in their processes as they can reduce the time to market and allow for smaller production runs for customers. In addition, 3D printing is expected to significantly interrupt the $12 trillion global manufacturing industry. Laminated Object Manufacturing is a process in which layers of plastic or metal laminates are glued together to form a 3D object. The main issue with current technologies is the inability to align short or long fibers in a specific manner thus hindering potential beneficial mechanical properties of the production material. This technology describes a 3D printing technique which is able to accommodate multiple fiber sizes and orientations to greatly enhance the properties of 3D printed materials with greatly enhanced mechanical and physical capabilities. The technology uses a build platform and resin extruder to deposit aligned nanofibers onto each layer of the material being produced. The material is then cured to produce thermoplastics and thermosets with mechanical and physical properties far superior to that of previous methods for creating laminated materials. Reinforced nanofiber materials can then be used to create parts for various applications and industries.

The materials are not limited in thickness and the orientation and density of the nanofibers can be varied between each layer. In addition, the technology is not limited to solid materials and can be used to produce semi-liquids or liquid materials.

This process does not require a dangerous heat source or costly ventilation systems.

Potential Application

Introduction of aligned nanofibers into 3D printing.

Opportunity

The global market for 3D printing in 2014 was $4.1 billion and expected to exceed $44 billion at a CAGR of 22 percent by 2025. North America encompasses the majority of the market share which is expected to exceed $18 billion during the same time period.

Rowan University is looking for a partner for further development and commercialization of this technology through a license.