Novel Numerical Methods for Additive Manufacturing 3D Printing of Dissimilar Materials

This project aims to advance the fundamental knowledge for additive manufacturing of parts with dissimilar materials. To achieve this, we will develop numerical method(s) to model the layering process of dissimilar materials, paying special attention on the interactions of dissimilar materials during the layering process and their interactions with the source(s) of the material(s).

Our method(s) will be:-
1. Generic and can be applied to study a wide range of materials with the appropriate constitutive relations.
2. Able to predict
i. the adhesion capabilities of dissimilar materials
ii. the resulting strength of the composite parts

Additive manufacturing (AD), also known as 3D printing, has the potential of producing large industrial parts through 3D printing. Electronic beam additive printing can produce large metal parts, while large plastic parts can also be produced. In additive manufacturing, parts are produced by the layering process, where the final part is accumulation of multiple layers of materials. AD of dissimilar materials will be the natural development of great interests in the manufacturing sector.

In this project, we will develop fundamental knowledge for AD of dissimilar materials. We will aim to advance the knowledge of layering dissimilar materials, focusing on the interactions of the two materials during the layering process. In addition to the above interactions, we will also account for their interactions with the source(s)/supplier(s) of the materials.

The aim upon completion of the project, will be to have a numerical method(s) to model AD of dissimilar materials with capabilities listed in the Project Summary.