As progress continues in fields such as microelectronics, sensing technology, and biomedicine, the demands on the production of micro- and nanoscale components are increasing. Traditional manufacturing methods are increasingly reaching their limits, especially when it comes to geometrically complex structures and precise dimensional accuracy. A recent review study, published in Microsystems & Nanoengineering, analyzes the potential of 3D printing technologies for the fabrication of such components and highlights recent advances in material selection, resolution, and functionality.
The research team examined seven different 3D printing technologies, including methods such as binder jetting and vat photopolymerization. While the former is particularly suited for large-volume manufacturing, the latter offers high resolution down to the sub-micrometer range—especially relevant for fabricating functional microstructures in microfluidics or MEMS components. Integrated parts with fluidic and electronic components can be produced in a single step using additive manufacturing—a significant advantage over conventional manufacturing routes, which typically require multiple assembly processes.
Another key focus of the analysis lies in novel materials that can be processed using additive techniques. These include conductive polymers and piezoelectric composites, which greatly expand the functionality of printed structures.
“3D printing is revolutionizing the way we design and manufacture micro and nano devices,” says Dr. Jun Yang, a leading researcher in the field. “The ability to create complex, high-precision structures with a wide range of materials opens up new possibilities for innovation in microelectronics and microfluidics. This technology is not just a tool for prototyping but a viable method for producing functional devices at scale.”
The findings suggest that additive manufacturing could play a central role in the development of miniaturized systems in the future—such as wearable sensors, lab-on-a-chip systems, or application-specific MEMS. The combination of geometric freedom, material diversity, and process integration makes 3D printing a promising tool for the next generation of functional micro-components.
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