News Researchers 3D print wood objects from sawdust ink – texture, appearance, and smell similar to the real thing

[Admin]

Researchers have developed a new 3D printing technology that recycles wood waste material. According to a recently published research paper, the new methodology results in 3D-printed objects with the texture, appearance, thermal stability, and smell of natural wood.

Researchers 3D print wood objects from sawdust ink – texture, appearance, and smell similar to the real thing : Read more

 

[FoxtrotMichael-1]

This probably has some pretty neat implications for manufactured wood products and the industries that apply them (think IKEA furniture). However, for those who love working with wood, nothing will ever replace actual wood. It’s just nice to know that sawdust and wood waste can be made into a useful material.

 

[OneMoreUser]

This probably has some pretty neat implications for manufactured wood products and the industries that apply them (think IKEA furniture). However, for those who love working with wood, nothing will ever replace actual wood. It’s just nice to know that sawdust and wood waste can be made into a useful material.

For sure it will not be like working with real wood, so I totally agree with you about working the stuff.
Only I also think the use will be limited to decorative bits, as I notice the article has no mentioning of the strength of the printed "wood". That has me thinking what is printed is likely more like some fiber product, ie. not really something you build stuff from unless you have a structure to support it.

 

[gg83]

This probably has some pretty neat implications for manufactured wood products and the industries that apply them (think IKEA furniture). However, for those who love working with wood, nothing will ever replace actual wood. It’s just nice to know that sawdust and wood waste can be made into a useful material.

Absolutely! I wonder if the strength will be similar to grown wood. With the grain and whatnot. And with no polymer binders!!!! It's a great concept.

 

[georgebaker437]

Sounds like a very complex way of making cardboard to me! At best, it is just particle board with a lignin based glue.

 

[Eximo]

This won't get adopted by companies like IKEA, it doesn't scale well. Minimizing manufacturing time is how they make cheap things, not slowing down to 3D print parts.

I can see this replacing complex wood carving in the hobbyist space, or making things out of a wood like material that are impossible through normal wood working techniques.

 

[slightnitpick]

Apparently, the material handles a lot like clay and is just right for direct ink writing (DIW) style 3D printing.

Now I need to know whether this is something potters and sculptors will shape by hand.