Three Dimensional Printing of Nanoscale Powders Using Laser Shockwaves

Abstract

A new threedimensional (3D) printing process designated as shockwaveinduced freeform technique (SWIFT) is explored for fabricating microparts from nanopowders. SWIFT consists of generating shockwaves using a laser beam, applying these shocks to pressure sinter nanoparticles at room temperature, and creating structures and devices by the traditional layerbylayer formation. Shockwave cold compaction of nanoscale powders has the capability to overcome limitations, such as shrinkage, porosity, rough surface, and wide tolerance, normally encountered in hot sintering processes, such as selective laser sintering. In this study, the window of operating parameters and the underlying physics of SWIFT were investigated using a highenergy Qswitched Nd: YAG laser and nanodiamond (ND) powders. Results indicate the potential of SWIFT for fabricating highperformance diamond microtools with high aspect ratios, smooth surfaces, and sharp edges. The drawback is that the SWIFT process does not work for microsized powders.