Funded project brings volumetric 3D printing closer to industrial series production

Volumetric 3D printing has for several years been regarded as a promising approach for producing complex components more quickly and without conventional layer-by-layer construction. A new research project by Motion Imager and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Eindhoven University of Technology is now intended to further develop this technology from an experimental process into a reproducible production method. To this end, the Materials Innovation Institute, together with Holland HighTech, is providing substantial funding.

At the core of the work is the close integration of materials development and the manufacturing process. According to those involved in the project, isolated material design without considering manufacturability often leads to scrap, limited functionality, and inefficient use of resources. The goal is therefore to design material properties in such a way that they correspond as closely as possible to the original design specifications in the manufactured component, without compromising process stability.

As an application example, the researchers cite microstructured propulsion components for satellites. Such components place high demands on mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, while at the same time featuring complex internal channels, variable wall thicknesses in the double-digit micrometer range, and non-planar geometries. Conventional manufacturing methods or layer-based additive processes often force design compromises here that negatively affect flow behavior and service life.

The volumetric approach, by contrast, makes it possible to cure three-dimensional structures almost simultaneously throughout the entire build volume. This allows internal support structures to be avoided and reduces material consumption as well as post-processing. According to the project team, this brings a buy-to-fly ratio close to one within reach, which is particularly relevant for aerospace applications.

In the long term, the collaboration aims to deliver standardized processes, simulation tools, and validated material models. This could make volumetric additive manufacturing technically and economically viable for series applications in industries such as automotive engineering, medical technology, or robotics.