3D printing techniques were introduced in the 1980s with the aim to fabricate customized objects without the need for molds.
Since then, photopolymerization-based 3D printing techniques have attracted the interest of chemists, engineers and scientists.
So, what are photopolymers?
Photopolymers are typically thermoset materials that change properties when exposed to light to form cross-linked polymer structures.
With little finishing needed, photopolymer technologies can be specially formulated to accommodate unique application needs. To this end, the technology has opened opportunities in various fields.
Below, we explore three ways photopolymers are used in 3D printing.