Invention:
This technology allows for 3D printers to print optical structures that have a glassy texture. The technology takes liquid polymer silica and transforms it into the desired optical structure, with minimal shrinkage.
Background:
The 3D printer market has had an increasing demand and growth over the past few years. With the wide variety that the market offers, it allows for a wide variety of potential uses in every industry there has been an increasing demand for its applications. Though with all of the possibilities there has been a push for testing out new materials to print and use.
Currently, it is common for 3D printers to print either plastics or metals. This technology pushes the unconventional materials. The industry has struggled with the ability to print glass. There are however, a few alternatives to printing glass structures that include incorporating glass beads within Nylon, creating a Nylon filled glass material but nothing close to the only glass. This technology has the potential to offer a glass material that can be printed. Additionally, it would allow for 3D printing of optical structures and other products that are looking to use a glass material.
Applications:
- 3D printing industry
- 3D printing of glass structures
Advantages:
- More efficient
- Less shrinkage
- Versatile
- Glassy
