Exploration of Microfluidic Technology for Additive Manufacturing: Devices for Precise Material Dispensing

Abstract:

The application of microfluidic technology within the field of additive manufacturing is investigated, with a specific focus on devices designed for precise material dosing. An in-depth examination is conducted to explore how microfluidic technology can be integrated into Cartesian 3D printing systems, enabling precise and controlled material dispensing throughout the manufacturing process. A novel methodology was developed to assess these devices, evaluating their feasibility and effectiveness in improving the quality and efficiency of manufactured products. Experimental analysis was performed to examine various microfluidic device configurations and their impacts on material dosing precision, along with their potential for reducing waste. Promising advancements in additive manufacturing were demonstrated by the findings, which offer new insights and opportunities in fields such as medicine, electronics, and engineering. The foundation for enhancing material dosing control in additive manufacturing was laid by this study. Keywords: Microfluidic technology, additive manufacturing, precise material dosing, Synthetic material.

• Periodical: Defect and Diffusion Forum (Volume 439)
• Pages: 233-242
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-lv2Iw2
• Online since: February 2025
• Authors: Erik Omar Alvarado-Alcántara*, Juan Alfonso Beltrán-Fernández, Alejandro Tonatiu Velázquez-Sánchez, Karen Pamela Vázquez-Thierry, Veronica Guzmán-Mercado, Carolina Alvarado-Moreno
• Keywords: Additive Manufacturing, Microfluidic Technology, Precise Material Dosing, Synthetic Material

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