Three-Dimensional Printing Using Recycled High-Density Polyethylene: Technological Challenges and Future Directions for Construction

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies enables fast prototyping of complex 3D objects with ever improving printing qualities. To date, 3D printing has been found useful in areas such as manufacturing, industrial design, aerospace, dental and medical industries, and many others. In this article, we review recent advances of 3D printing technologies for terahertz (THz) applications. Different 3D printing technologies and printable materials are first discussed and compared. 3D-printed THz components and devices, which are categorized as waveguides/fibers, antennas, and quasi-optical components, are further demonstrated. It is found that the performances and functionalities of 3D-printed THz devices have been greatly enhanced, while the operating frequencies have been increased from the lower end of THz range to over 1 THz region. With further development of novel materials and printing techniques, it is believed that 3D printing technologies will play an important role in the realization of THz components for efficient control and manipulation of THz waves.

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology has arrived and is changing a philisophy of “management.” A 3D-printed product is made from a powder or resin and can virtually shape any item from a digital graphics file. This new printing device, however, poses several unforeseen questions. The 3D printing technology calls for time and cost considerations. Once a private firm actually begins to operationalize the new technology, it will have to measure both merit and demerit in terms of a ‘before-and after adaptation’ perspective, in addition to a future prospect of further advantages the device might bring. Similarly, perhaps this is the most important, the use of this new technology might part away with the significant role and function of the core technology in production of different matters. Considering these topics, this study attempts to focus on the 3D printing technology and its influence on technology management. It specifically discusses the impact of 3D printing technology applied to manufacturing companies on their cost, time, quality and activities. To answer this question, a cost structure is developed using the IDKKH method. The cost calculation is also considered using the Cost-Matrix method. After making model and matrix, possibilities are shown as research collaborators and outsourcing selection to organize with the concept of technology management. Through these analyses, problems are clarified, and the discussions indicate the results of introducing 3D printing technology, R & D innovation, and technology management

Three-dimensional printing is a rapidly developing area of technology and manufacturing in the field of oral surgery. The aim of this study was comparison of presurgical models made by two different types of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. Digital reference models were printed 10 times using fused deposition modelling (FDM) and digital light processing (DLP) techniques. All 3D printed models were scanned using a technical scanner. The trueness, linear measurements, and printing time were evaluated. The diagnostic models were compared with the reference models using linear and mean deviation for trueness measurements with computer software. Paired t-tests were performed to compare the two types of 3D printing technology. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. For FDM printing, all average distances between the reference points were smaller than the corresponding distances measured on the reference model. For the DLP models, the average distances in the three measurements were smaller than the original. Only one average distance measurement was greater. The mean deviation for trueness was 0.1775 mm for the FDM group and 0.0861 mm for the DLP group. Mean printing time for a single model was 517.6 minutes in FDM technology and 285.3 minutes in DLP. This study confirms that presurgical models manufactured with FDM and DLP technologies are usable in oral surgery. Our findings will facilitate clinical decision-making regarding the best 3D printing technology to use when planning a surgical procedure.

Recent developments in three-dimensional (3D) printing technology offer immense potential in fabricating scaffolds and implants for various biomedical applications, especially for bone repair and regeneration. As the availability of autologous bone sources and commercial products is limited and surgical methods do not help in complete regeneration, it is necessary to develop alternative approaches for repairing large segmental bone defects. The 3D printing technology can effectively integrate different types of living cells within a 3D construct made up of conventional micro- or nanoscale biomaterials to create an artificial bone graft capable of regenerating the damaged tissues. This article reviews the developments and applications of 3D printing in bone tissue engineering and highlights the numerous conventional biomaterials and nanomaterials that have been used in the production of 3D-printed scaffolds. A comprehensive overview of the 3D printing methods such as stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), fused deposition modeling (FDM), and ink-jet 3D printing, and their technical and clinical applications in bone repair and regeneration has been provided. The review is expected to be useful for readers to gain an insight into the state-of-the-art of 3D printing of bone substitutes and their translational perspectives.

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is becoming a promising method for fabricating highly complex ceramics owing to the arbitrary design and the infinite combination of materials. Insufficient density is one of the main problems with 3D printed ceramics, but concentrated descriptions of making dense ceramics are scarce. This review specifically introduces the principles of the four 3D printing technologies and focuses on the parameters of each technology that affect the densification of 3D printed ceramics, such as the performance of raw materials and the interaction between energy and materials. The technical challenges and suggestions about how to achieve higher ceramic density are presented subsequently. The goal of the presented work is to comprehend the roles of critical parameters in the subsequent 3D printing process to prepare dense ceramics that can meet the practical applications.

Background: Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology has rapidly emerged as a transformative tool in medicine, enabling the conversion of two-dimensional scans into highly accurate 3D models. This technology, especially when combined with artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced materials, offers numerous applications in surgical planning, simulation-based training, and patient-specific care. Methods: This review examines current literature and case studies on the use of 3D printing technology in various fields of medicine, especially in surgical specialties. Key applications include surgical planning, mock surgeries, biopsy guide creation, and customized implant fabrication across various surgical fields. Results: 3D printing is transforming surgery by enabling precise visualization of tumors and critical structures, significantly enhancing preoperative planning for conditions such as bone, soft tissue (e.g., neuroblastomas), renal, and maxillofacial tumors. In reconstruction surgeries, patient-specific 3D-printed implants ensure better anatomical compatibility, particularly in maxillofacial, neurosurgical, and vascular applications. Puncture guides improve procedural accuracy in interventions like percutaneous nephrolithotripsy. Detailed anatomical models aid in simulation-based training, increasing preparedness for complex procedures. Additionally, patient-specific implants and AI-integrated decision support systems are paving the way for more personalized and efficient surgical care. Conclusions: 3D printing technology, especially when combined with AI, is reshaping modern surgery by improving both accuracy, safety, and personalized healthcare. Its applications extend across multiple specialties, offering new possibilities in surgical planning, training, and patient-specific treatments. As AI and bioprinting continue to evolve, the potential for real-time applications, such as live-printed tissue implants and enhanced decision support, could drive the next phase of innovation in various fields.

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is characterized by "inside-out" stack manufacturing. Compared with conventional technologies, 3D printing has the advantage of personalization and precision. Therefore, the shape and internal structure of the scaffolds made by 3D printing technology are highly biomimetic. Besides, 3D bioprinting can precisely deposit the biomaterials, seeding cells and cytokines at the same time, which is a breakthrough in printing technique and material science. With the development of 3D printing, it will make great contributions to the reconstruction of vertebrae and intervertebral disc in the future.

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology allows foods to be shaped into unique and complex. Chocolate is frequently used in food printing due to its extrusion melting capacity and attractiveness. In this study, chocolates enriched with &amp;omega;-3 were produced with 3D printing technology. Using electrospraying, &amp;omega;-3 was encapsulated within sodium alginate (SA) microparticles, and 3D printed chocolates were coated with those microparticles. Then, the &amp;omega;-3 blend and &amp;omega;-3-SA coated chocolates were compared. Before printing, the rheological properties of chocolate were analysed. In addition to their characteristics, the printed chocolates were evaluated for total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity, in vitro gastrointestinal digestion, and &amp;omega;-3 release profile. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicated that &amp;omega;-3 was successfully incorporated into the SA particles. According to the mechanical testing, the chocolate structures coated with &amp;omega;-3-SA exhibited higher compressive strength than structures mixed with &amp;omega;-3. The results revealed that the incorporation of alginate into pure chocolate scaffolds through the coating process resulted in an increase in compressive strength. The TPC and antioxidant capacities of &amp;omega;-3-SA microparticles (NP) coated and &amp;omega;-3 mixed chocolate samples were also significantly increased compared to those of pure chocolate after in vitro digestion. &amp;omega;-3-SA NP-coated chocolate appeared to have a lower quality release profile. The faster release of encapsulated &amp;omega;-3 at a pH value of 7 may be attributed to the fact that sodium alginate particles dissolve faster in high pH environments. This study revealed that 3D printing technology could be actively leveraged to create food-based products with the necessary ingredients to meet consumer demand.

For decades we have used printers to print superheroes on the pages of comic books but could printing technologies actually be used to print real life superheroes? 3D and functional printing technologies have advanced greatly in recent years and even though these technologies cannot be used to print heroes themselves, they can certainly be used for equipment manufacturing. One character that could or may use 3D printing to rapidly produce prototypes and final versions of new technologies is Tony Stark. As the inventor and primary user of the Iron Man suit, Stark has designed a wearable suit that is not only a weapon but also protects him. However, in battle the suit can become damaged and require urgent repairs. To aid in these repairs, Tony Stark could turn to 3D printing technologies to produce new components for the suit. In this paper we will outline 3D printing technologies and describe their current applications. We will then discuss how 3D printing is being used to print electronics and the ramifications for Tony Stark, his Iron Man suit and the potential use for a real Iron Man suit.

Aortic dissection (AD) is a devastating disease with a high mortality rate. Exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (exo-MSCs) offer a promising strategy to restore aortic medial degeneration and combat ferroptosis in AD. However, their rapid degradation in the circulatory system and low treatment efficiency limit their clinical application. Methylacrylated gelatin (Gelma) was reported as a matrix material to achieve controlled release of exosomes. Herein, exo-MSCs-embedded in Gelma hydrogels (Gelma-exos) using ultraviolet light and three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. These Gelma-exos provide a sustained release of exo-MSCs as Gelma gradually degrades, helping to restore aortic medial degeneration and prevent ferroptosis. The sustained release of exosomes can inhibit the phenotypic switch of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to a proliferative state, and curb their proliferation and migration. Additionally, the 3D-printed Gelma-exos demonstrated the ability to inhibit ferroptosis in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo experiments. In conclusion, our Gelma-exos, combined with 3D-printed technology, offer an alternative treatment approach for repairing aortic medial degeneration and ferroptosis in AD, potentially reducing the incidence of aortic dissection rupture.Graphical

This case report presents the surgical management of a complex abdominal sarcoma in a 33-year-old female patient, emphasizing the pivotal role of advanced imaging and three-dimensional (3D) printing technology in optimizing surgical outcomes. The study aimed to explore the clinical value of integrating computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and patient-specific 3D-printed models for preoperative planning, intraoperative navigation, and postoperative evaluation. A multidisciplinary team utilized Mimics23 software to generate a detailed 3D reconstruction of the tumor and its intricate anatomical relationships with the ileocecal region, appendix, and colon. This model guided the precise resection of a 15 × 10 × 10cm high-grade sarcoma, minimizing damage to adjacent critical structures. The technology-enhanced approach resulted in complete tumor excision with clear margins, and postoperative no complications. This case underscores the potential of 3D visualization and printing to address the challenges of complex abdominal sarcomas, offering a paradigm for personalized surgical strategies in oncology.

This study evaluates the three-dimensional (3D) printing materials used in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printing technology. 3D printing technology has been developing strongly, becoming an effective support tool in production and research. The 3D printing process involves many stages, with many parameters affecting the quality and properties of the product, in which 3D printing material is one of many essential factors affecting that process. The study conducts a comprehensive assessment of the most common materials in 3D printing technology to determine the advantages and limitations of precisely five types of materials: Polylactic acid, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polyethylene terephthalate glycol-modified, thermoplastic polyurethane, and acrylonitrile styrene acrylate. With 3D printing, parameters such as sintering temperature, printing speed, and layer thickness are kept constant. These parameters are applied equally to all five material samples. The experiment evaluates the tensile strength of materials. The study results provide an overview of the properties and applicability of 3D printing materials, helping to select materials suitable for specific FDM 3D printing technology applications.

Three-Dimensional (3D) printing technology can be used to manufacture training platforms for surgeons. Kidney transplantation offers a suitable model, since it mostly entails vascular and ureteric anastomoses. A new simulation platform for surgical training in kidney transplantation was realized and validated in this study. A combination of different 3-D printing technology was used to reproduce the key anatomy of lower abdomen, of pelvis, and of a kidney graft, including their mechanical properties. Thirty transplantations were performed by two junior trainees with no previous experience in the area. Analysis of the times required to perform the simulated transplantation showed that proficiency was reached after about ten cases, as indicated by a flattening of the respective curves that corresponded to a shortening of about 40% and 47%, respectively, of the total time initially needed to perform the whole simulated transplantation. Although an objective assessment of the technical quality of the anastomoses failed to show a significant improvement throughout the study, a growth in self-confidence with the procedure was reported by both trainees. The quality of the presented simulation platform aimed at reproducing in the highest possible way a realistic model of the operative setting and proved effective in providing an integrated training environment where technical skills are enhanced together with a team-training experience. As a result the trainees' self-confidence with the procedure resulted enforced. Three-D--printed models can also offer pre-operative patient-specific training when anatomical variants are anticipated by medical imaging. An analysis of the costs related to the use of this platform is also provided and discussed.

The United Nations (UN) 2030 agenda on sustainable development goals (SDGs) encourages us to implement sustainable infrastructure and services for confronting challenges such as large energy consumption, solid waste generation, depletion of water resources and emission of greenhouse gases in the construction industry. Therefore, to overcome challenges and establishing sustainable construction, there is a requirement to integrate information technology with innovative manufacturing processes and materials science. Moreover, the wide implementation of three-dimensional printing (3DP) technology in constructing monuments, artistic objects, and residential buildings has gained attention. The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud manufacturing (CM), and 3DP allows us to digitalize the construction for providing reliable and digitalized features to the users. In this review article, we discuss the opportunities and challenges of implementing the IoT, CM, and 3D printing (3DP) technologies in building constructions for achieving sustainability. The recent convergence research of cloud development and 3D printing (3DP) are being explored in the article by categorizing them into multiple sections including 3D printing resource access technology, 3D printing cloud platform (3D–PCP) service architectures, 3D printing service optimized configuration technology, 3D printing service evaluation technology, and 3D service control and monitoring technology. This paper also examines and analyzes the limitations of existing research and, moreover, the article provides key recommendations such as automation with robotics, predictive analytics in 3DP, eco-friendly 3DP, and 5G technology-based IoT-based CM for future enhancements.

Compensating the cell-induced light scattering effect in light-based bioprinting using deep learning