Additive Manufacturing of Magnetic Materials for Energy, Environment, Healthcare, and Industry Applications

Abstract

Recent advancements in additive manufacturing (AM) techniques have significantly expanded the potential applications of magnetic materials and devices. This review summarizes various AM methods, including ink-based and ink-free processes, and their use in fabricating complex magnetic structures with specific properties tailored for different fields. Key applications discussed include energy-harvesting devices enhanced with magnetic nanoparticles, water decontamination through magnetically guided microswimmers, and magnetic soft composites in robotics and medical devices. In addition, the integration of AM in producing wearable and flexible magnetic sensors is highlighted, demonstrating its transformative impact on human-machine interactions. Furthermore, rare-earth-free magnets and electric motor designs enabled by AM techniques are also discussed. Despite material compatibility and scalability challenges, AM provides opportunities for creating multifunctional, sustainable devices with reduced waste. Future research should focus on optimizing these techniques for complex applications and large-scale production, particularly in eco-friendly and industrial settings.