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.

There’s a lot of buzz around flexible electronics today, and rightfully so.

The convergence of these technologies, including wearable devices and foldable displays, enable innovative form factors and features that provide consumers with highly personalized experiences.

The market is segmented by application (displaying, lighting and sensing) and end-user (automotive, aerospace, health and wellness, electronics, medical, military and robotics). But, how exactly are these electronics manufactured to flex and fold without breaking across their various use cases? Below, we explore how the technology has evolved over the years.

Advances in 3D printing are enabling technology for a wide range of applications.

Nowadays, many things around you are built with the help of a 3D printer. This is because designers, engineers and manufacturers can experiment with numerous design iterations at no extensive time or tooling expense.

But, not all 3D printers use the same materials. In fact, the material often dictates what 3D printing processes are available to use.

Below, we explore the various types of materials, including metals, photopolymers and thermoplastics.

The origins of flexible displays can be traced back to the ’70s. Though there have been many breakthroughs since then, it was only recently that this technology began to see consumer adoption for mass production.

Currently, 90% of displays sold today are made with glass. These designs are based on liquid crystal displays (LCD). Flexible displays are often based on organic light-emitting diode (OLED) technology, which is fundamentally different than LCD.

So, how does this technology flex and fold? Below, we explore how to create flexible displays using OLED over LCD.

Because the semiconductor industry produces some of the world’s most advanced products, it’s often the first to feel the impact of a technology shift.

With the coming fifth generation (5G) of cellular technology, manufacturers must develop materials with advanced capabilities on several fronts.

Below, we explore how this new wave of technology impacts the semiconductor industry.

According to ScienceDirect, “Photopolymerization is a technique that uses light (visible or ultraviolet) to initiate and propagate a reaction to form a linear or cross-linked polymer structure.”

It’s a significant area of focus for researchers and developers, as it allow for production of materials with customized properties.

In microelectronics, for example, scientists are able to manipulate the physical properties of polymer networks to improve adhesion and solvent resistance by exposing the material to light sources.

If you think that’s impressive, continue reading for three other interesting photopolymerization applications.