3D printing of multifunctional nanocomposites

Additive manufacturing (aka, 3D printing) holds strong potential for the formation of a new class of multifunctional nanocomposites. With the ability to print complex 3D objects layer by layer, additive manufacturing with nanomaterials could be leveraged in new ways toward greater control over material properties across part dimensions. Multifunctionality through embedding of nanomaterials can further extend capabilities of nanocomposites to properties such as gradients in thermal and electrical conductivity, photonic emissions tunable for wavelength, and increased strength and reduced weight. Here we discuss the promises offered by nanomaterials-based additive manufacturing as a new paradigm for nanocomposite functionality. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.