Methods of Characterization of 3-Printed Objects

Abstract

The popularity of 3D printers has increased in the past decade, partially attributed to the expiration of significant patents and the availability of cost-effective equipment. The utilisation of 3D printing technology offers numerous benefits, including cost efficiency, expedited prototyping, minimised waste production, the ability to create lightweight structures, and decreased energy consumption, among others. According to a recent study, the global market for 3D printing products and services reached an estimated value of approximately 12.6 billion USD in the year 2020. Projections indicate that this market is poised to have a compound annual growth rate of 17% throughout the period spanning 2020 to 2023 [1]. The utilisation of 3D printing technology has been observed in various domains, including but not limited to medical devices and the automobile industry, electronics sector, construction field, and aerospace sector. This chapter will elucidate the primary techniques employed for characterising three-dimensional printed objects.