Material Extrusion AM with Water-soluble Feedstocks: Background, Benefits, and Barriers

Material extrusion additive manufacturing (MEAM) has emerged as a versatile and cost-effective technology for fabricatingcomplex three-dimensional components. This review focuses on the integration of water-soluble feedstocks in MEAM,highlighting their potential for environmentally sustainable and efficient manufacturing. Water-soluble polymers such aspolyethylene glycol (PEG) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) serve as critical binder components, enabling the use of water as adebinding agent, which minimizes reliance on hazardous solvents and reduces environmental impact. The composition andoptimization of feedstocks—including the balance of polymers, powders, and additives—play a pivotal role in determiningrheological behavior, extrusion performance, and the mechanical properties of green and sintered parts. Challenges such asmaintaining mechanical strength, managing environmental sensitivity, and ensuring consistency in processing are addressed.Key insights into the relationship between particle morphology, binder molecular weight, and process parameters such asextrusion temperature and nozzle design are meadiscussed. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of currentadvancements and limitations in using water-soluble feedstocks for MEAM, identifying future research opportunities aimedat enhancing process reliability and sustainability. The findings aim to support the wider adoption of MEAM in diverseapplications, , leveraging innovative feedstock designs for more sustainable manufacturing practices.

کلیدواژه ها:

Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing (MEAM) ، Polyethylene