Advances in 3D printing with eco-friendly materials: a sustainable approach to manufacturing

Abstract

Additive manufacturing or 3D printing has revolutionized production techniques across industries, offering unprecedented flexibility and customization potential. However, with growing environmental concerns, the focus has shifted towards enhancing sustainability within 3D printing processes by utilizing eco-friendly materials. This review elaborates different 3D printing processes that are useful in printing biodegradable, biocompatible and other eco-friendly materials. Additionally, recent advancements in biodegradable polymers, bio-composites, and hybrid materials compatible with 3D printing technologies have also been discussed. Moreover, applications of ecofriendly materials in different fields have been elucidated in detail. This article will assist in understanding the role of eco-friendly materials in fostering a sustainable manufacturing landscape. The findings emphasize the need for further material optimization to balance sustainability with functionality, marking a crucial step toward environmentally benign 3D printing.