journal article·2025-03-20Open access

The Additive Manufacturing of Glass: A Critical Review

Mackinley Shaw, Dylan Vlahopoulos, Clara Usma-Mansfield, Jeffrey Sarmiento, Roland Snooks, Tony Koutsonikolas, Nick Birbilis

Applied Sciences· Volume 15· Issue 6

Abstract

This paper presents a critical review of additive manufacturing (AM) techniques applied to glass, elucidating the current state of the field and identifying key challenges and opportunities. The review identifies various AM methods, as applied to glass fabrication over broad length scales. Critical aspects such as material considerations, process parameters, and postprocessing techniques are presented, offering insights into the evolving landscape of glass AM. A particular emphasis is placed on semi-solid glass processing. The paper assesses the achievements and limitations of existing methodologies, paving the way for future advancements. This review serves as a resource for both researchers and practitioners in the emerging field of the additive manufacturing of glass, including applications in the domain of architecture and art.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Technologies · 3D Surveying and Cultural Heritage · Recycling and utilization of industrial and municipal waste in materials production

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

College of Engineering, Computing and Cybernetics, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia

Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia

School of Art and Design, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia

School of Architecture and Urban Design, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia

Funding

CSIRO Next-generation Graduates Program · Deakin University

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