Top 10 Materials for 3D Printing

The popularity of 3D printing is going viral during recent times with availability of printers that can print on different types of materials from plastic to paper. As there is a wide range of materials available for 3D printing, it is difficult to pick one of the options available. When the customers choose to go with 3D printing, you can come up with a wide range of 3D printing materials that satisfies all kinds of demands. The current article lists top 10 3D printing materials.

Metals :-

Bonze, gold, steel, aluminum and titanium are the popular list of metals used for 3D printing. These metals are printed directly by binding metal dust and firing it instead of casting and post-processing to turn the material hard. This process will turn the material into functional to get the machine to finish the items.

Carbon fiber and other composites :-

In this type 3D printing material, the 3D print is first done on the plastic like ABS, and prints carbon fibers on top which is a most affordable way to print something as strong as metal. This martial is preferably used in bicycles and aeronautics industries.

Carbon nanotubes and graphene embedded in plastics :-

This kind of material is a fantastic option for flexible touch screens, building circuits, and solar panels. The material can be a preferred choice for building a new technology in addition to being able to do the printing easily and fast.   

Nitinol :-

It is an alloy of Nickel and titanium is known for its super elasticity. The metal has the ability to change shapes and is popularly used for catheter wires and stents. It is also widely used in medical implants.

Water-absorbing plastic :-

This material is printed in the 4D printing process. The object can take the desired shape after it is printed leading a self-assembly. This means even if something is inserted into the body through a narrow tube, the end product can take a different shape if it needs to be.

Nylon :-

This is very cost effective synthetic polymer used for 3D printing in Australia. Its transparent and silky nature got it the name white plastic and has turned to be an immense application in formulating household items.

ABS :-

It is abbreviated as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene and is a common petroleum-based polymer. The material is resistant to extreme temperatures. This is also available in the section of affordable 3D printing services and used for desktop 3D printing.

Acrylics :-

It is a collective term used for a wide range of plastic material. It is used as an alternative glass and has long shelf life.

Resins :-

Resins are also one of the popular materials used for 3D printing in the industry due to their non-toxic nature and availability for a wide range of applications.

Paper :-

This is 3D printing material that is extensively used in the market. because of its inexpensive nature and mold ability. You can easily trim and glue layers of paper to create desired shapes. You can customize colors and designs according to your requirements.

Ceramics :-

These are also common materials used in 3D printing and are found to be extremely delicate. In this case, ceramic will serve as base material; the structure is printed first and glazed with finishing.