Understanding drying dynamics in Binder Jetting: Development of a physical model for improved selection of drying parameters and better control of binder saturation

Binder Jetting is a layer-by-layer 3D printing process that consists of selectively binding particles together on each layer to create 2D patterns of a part. A drying step is usually performed after printing to evaporate some of the binder solvents before the next layer is applied. However, optimization of binder drying for improved part manufacturing has received little attention. In this paper, a dedicated test bench was used to measure binder mass loss over time under various drying conditions. By establishing a methodology and an experimentally validated drying model, this work represents a significant advance in the understanding of the drying phase and binder behavior between the deposition of successive layers. A time-dependent conceptualization of binder saturation within a layer of powder is presented for the first time, and valuable insights are provided to pave the way for improved selection of printing and drying parameters for aqueous binders in Binder Jetting.