News regarding 3-D printing keeps moving forward as researchers develop advanced techniques that allow companies to make customized products for clients. Specialized molecular arrangements, liquid polymer tools, printed clothing and Lego-inspired glue guns have shown anything can happen with additive manufacturing.
Scientists at Howard Hughes Medical Institute developed a way to synthesize new products by automating a 3-D printing process that uses small molecules. Researchers made 14 distinct types of chemicals, in minute quantities, from common molecular building blocks. The applications of this technology may lead to the synthesis of thousands of custom chemicals.
The inspiration for this 3-D printing process came from the way nature produces organic chemicals by combining small molecules through various reactions and precise modifications. Plants, animals and microorganisms manufacture proteins in order to sustain life. These same types of processes can create small molecules useful to solar cells, LEDs, diagnostic tools and microchip technology.
Certain building-block molecules attract others, and any excess substances are rinsed away using other chemical techniques in the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's research. This "catch and release" system produced simple linear molecules and complex organic compounds with several ring-type structures.
The current application of synthesized molecules may lead to new drugs and new medical therapies. The barrier to creating the best possible drug for someone was limited by how molecules get put together during the manufacturing step. This new 3-D printing technique produces drugs in a more practical manner. Researchers hope to make several other natural products in this way.
These molecular products do not have to originate from chemists in a lab. Anyone with an Internet connection can view a database of molecules, create a manufacturing protocol and look at the finished product. Engineers, doctors, educators and entrepreneurs become empowered to produce whatever substances they need based on whatever common building blocks are found in the printer.
Additive manufacturing seems to be the preferred method for companies that specialize in customization. Jewelry, automotive parts and construction materials can be created from 3-D printing processes. As the cost for these printers comes down, companies can invest in this technology to save money, create on-demand items for clients and keep less inventory on hand.
Instead of warehouses full of stuff, manufacturers simply need to keep raw materials on hand and let 3-D printers do the rest. Product personalization becomes especially important with clothing design, art projects, medical items and hard-to-find replacement parts. A company that creates on-demand products, for nearly any purpose, becomes valuable to virtually any customer.
Firms must invest in additive manufacturing to remain relevant to contemporary customers who need specialized equipment. A 3-D printing business that can create a form-fitting dress at one table and a life-saving heart valve at an adjacent station captures more customers, and more market share, thanks to customized products.
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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