3D Printing Applications in Agriculture, Food Processing, and Environmental Protection and Monitoring

Abstract

3D Printing, more formally known as Additive Manufacturing, is already being applied in many different applications. This paper presents a mini review of the use cases of 3D printing in the fields of agriculture, food processing, and environment protection and monitoring. Specifically, the paper discusses the different materials used in 3D printing of parts, the different printing technologies employed in the process, as well as the application prospects. PLA and ABS thermoplastics are the most common materials used for 3D printing in the field of agriculture as they are relatively cheap and easy to print. The direct extrusion of food helps people with swallowing difficulties increase their food intake as well as customize their diet. As for the environment, applications in water desalination and air quality monitoring are among the relevant applications of 3D printing presented in this paper.