Strategies for vat photopolymerization additive manufacturing of metals and ceramics

Abstract

Vat photopolymerization (VP) additive manufacturing (AM) enables the fabrication of complex 3D metal and ceramic objects by using light to selectively cure liquid resins, followed by post-processing to convert precursors to inorganic materials. This technique has been applied across diverse practical applications and can produce metals and ceramics with unique and tailored properties. In this perspective, we discuss VP-based AM within the broader context of the AM field, with a focus on the recent advances in fabrication of metals and ceramics, including approaches where precursors are incorporated prior to printing and those where they are introduced post-printing. We also evaluate polymer thermal decomposition processes, a critical step in VP-based AM of metals and ceramics. Finally, we discuss current challenges, future opportunities, and emerging technological directions including multi-material printing and high-entropy alloy manufacturing.