Accuracy control of ZrO2 ceramic with microporous structure based on 3D printing

Abstract

Digital light processing technology, while offering high forming accuracy in additive manufacturing, faces significant challenges in microstructure formation due to constraints such as pixel size, resin shrinkage, and curing broadening. This study is the first to report on the control of accuracy in microporous structures using digital light processing technology. By optimizing the printed model, distortions in micropore formation can be mitigated. Adjusting the exposure energy and incorporating light absorbers allows for the precise modulation of the curing broadening effect in ceramic slurries, forming the micropores effectively. Employing this method, the minimum micropore diameter was achieved to100±15 μm with a shape factor of 1.023. These findings are crucial for advancing digital light processing technology to enhance the forming accuracy of ceramics with complex structures.