3D Printing Enables Customizable Batteries

3D printing, as a new technology, brings great freedom in the design and manufacturing of batteries. It offers unique advantages by the production of more advanced batteries with specific properties, such as good internal structural controllability, high shape conformability, and enhanced power capability and energy density. In this review, we provide an overview of 3D printing technologies in the field of customizable batteries. First, we introduce fundamental concepts of customizable batteries and the distinct advantages of 3D printing. Then, five representative 3D printing techniques are discussed along with their operating mechanisms, requirements for printing materials, manufacturing accuracy, and technical features. In addition, from the perspective of the three basic levels (pore structure, component architecture and interface, as well as battery appearance and mechanical deformability) of customizable batteries, a detailed overview is provided to gain an in-depth understanding. The state-of-the-art developments and current major challenges are summarized and discussed. Finally, potential research area is proposed to utilize 3D printed customizable batteries for practical applications.

Automated summary

3D printing, as a new technology, brings great freedom in the design and manufacturing of batteries. It offers unique advantages by producing more advanced batteries with specific properties. In this review, an overview of 3D printing technologies in the field of customizable batteries is provided, including the fundamental concepts, distinct advantages, operating mechanisms, printing materials requirements, manufacturing accuracy, and technical features of five representative 3D printing techniques. The state-of-the-art developments, current challenges, and potential research areas for practical applications of 3D printed customizable batteries are summarized and discussed.