Additive manufacturing (3D printing) technologies for fiber-reinforced polymer composite materials: A review on fabrication methods and process parameters

In recent years, additive manufacturing (AM) has seen extensive exploitation in the research areas for the processing of fiber-reinforced polymer composites (FRPCs). Existing reviews on AM have recommended either sustainable production methods or have introduced new processing methodologies. A relationship between materials used, manufacturing processes, process parameters, and their properties is essential in any manufacturing process. Accordingly, this review focuses on the manufacturing of FRPCs in relation to process parameters and properties of the polymer composites. Various studies dealt with the lightweight materials and parts that were manufactured through AM and which could retain the mechanical and other properties without compromising the strength and weight of the final product. The technologies involved in the major AM processes and the constituents used for the fabrication of FRPC parts, their advantages, and drawbacks are also deliberated. This review combines the material selection for AM technologies along with the choice of proper AM technique for printing FRPCs. This review further illustrates the recent research and technology that aims at embracing FRPCs into a circular economy. In summary, this review opens the door for new opportunities and for meeting challenges in the manufacturing of FRPCs by AM methodologies.