3D Printing

 3D printing uses computer-aided design to create three-dimensional objects through a layering method. Sometimes referred to as additive manufacturing, 3D printing involves layering materials, like plastics, composites or bio-materials to create objects that range in shape, size, rigidity and color.

3D Printing and nanotechnology present manifold advantages and unique properties that make them extremely attractive. In particular, in recent years, nanotechnology has opened a variety of routes scaling down the dimensions of materials and devices, while 3D printing has allowed the production of objects with shapes impossible to achieve by classical subtractive manufacturing techniques. The eventual combination of the two fields can bring forth unique results that are surely of great interest both at the scientific and industrial level. In particular, they are attracting strong attraction in the biomedical field.

3D printing and nanotechnology have been two important tools in the development of therapeutic approaches for personalized medicine. More recently, their alliance has been improved in an effort to build innovative, versatile, multifunctional, and/or smart medical and pharmaceutical products. In addition to creating 3D nanostructures, 3D printing utilizes nanotechnology in the precise deposition of nanocomposites.