A team of researchers from Tsinghua University in China has shattered the record for the fastest 3D printing speed, creating objects in a staggering 0.6 seconds. This breakthrough could revolutionize various fields such as biomedicine, nanotechnology, and electronics.
The new technique uses high-dimensional holographic light fields to create complex structures almost instantly. Unlike traditional point-by-point or layer-by-layer printing methods, this approach enables the rapid creation of millimeter-scale objects with great detail, down to 12 micrometers. The technology has the potential to overcome the trade-off between speed and precision, making it an attractive solution for industries such as biomedicine and nanotechnology.
The researchers developed a system called Digital Incoherent Synthesis of Holographic light fields (DISH), which utilizes a high-speed rotating periscope to project light from multiple angles. This method eliminates the need for physical rotation of the resin container, resulting in faster printing times. The technology also features iterative optimization of holograms, maintaining sharp resolution over a 1-cm range.
The implications of this breakthrough are vast. In biomedicine, it could enable the rapid creation of high-resolution biological tissue models. In electronics, it could facilitate the development of micro-robots and flexible electronics with complex geometries. The technology has also been tested with acrylate materials across a wide range of viscosities, achieving a printing rate of 333 cubic millimeters per second.
This achievement marks a significant milestone in the field of 3D printing, paving the way for advanced applications and transforming industries such as biomedicine, nanotechnology, and electronics.
Source: https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/china-shatters-3d-printing-speed-record