Additive Manufacturing of Sensors: A Comprehensive Review

The development and manufacturing of sensors are of great importance to modern engineering, as sensors are essential for detecting environmental changes and for the monitoring of various systems. While conventional manufacturing is the most common method for fabricating sensors, additive manufacturing (commonly known as 3D printing) has gained popularity as an efficient alternative. Although additively manufactured sensors are applicable in many engineering fields, building an entire sensor (including the housing structure and sensing components) by additive manufacturing remains challenging. This work presents a comprehensive analysis of the additive manufacturing processes, materials, and applications for sensors that are either fully or partially produced by additive manufacturing. Key issues in material development and processes that limit the development of fully 3D-printed sensors are highlighted. Additionally, the role of additively manufactured sensors plays in green technology has been explored. This review is expected to provide the researchers with a comprehensive understanding of the processes and materials used to produce sensors for various applications.