3D Printing with Chemistry and Chemical Engineering: Symbiotic Development and Risk Control

Abstract

There exists a mutually beneficial relationship between flourishing 3D printing technology and traditional chemical industry. The rational and effective adoption of materials and subject knowledge in the field of chemistry and chemical engineering is conducive to the improvement of 3D printing technology. While the development of 3D printing, as an advanced technology of additive manufacturing, also helps promote the research and practice process in the field of chemistry and chemical engineering through its material transformation ability. In this review, the concept, process, techniques, and advantages of 3D printing is introduced at the beginning. Then, the current application status of common chemical materials in 3D printing field and the future development trend of chemical industry under the influence of 3D printing are summarized. Besides, the risks and countermeasures are assessed and analyzed on issues that become visible in the field of 3D printing, especially those about hazardous chemicals, chemical ethics, social security, and market order. It is expected that in the future, 3D printing, chemical engineering, and other disciplines involved, will help each other and develop sustainably together.

Keywords

• 3d imprinting
• chemistry and chemical engineering
• materials
• ethics in science and technology
• risk control
• review