Expert's Opinion

Fast-Curing Silicone Ink Opens New Doors for 3D Printing

Like a two-part epoxy, the team’s Fast Cure (FC) ink separates the cross-linker and catalyst until just before extrusion, when they are continuously mixed.

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) have developed a new method to 3D print sturdy silicone structures that are bigger, taller, thinner and more porous than ever before. The team’s two-part “fast cure” silicone-based ink for direct ink writing mixes just before printing and sets quickly at room temperature, allowing for longer print times, simplifying the fabrication process, and ensuring structures will not collapse or sag, even in complex shapes and configurations. ...

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