在基于陶瓷的3D打印的整个简短和不断变化的历史中，该领域的许多创新者通过使用类似FDM的工艺在陶瓷材料中获得成功，该过程通过逐层构建设计层来起作用。但是，当谈到高性能陶瓷时，Lithoz和产品使用photopolymerization processes。总部位于加利福尼亚的马里布HRL实验室has taken this to a whole new level, using their stereolithography-like approach to 3D print ceramic materials with amazing industrial properties. The development and benefits behind this newly derived ceramic 3D printing method were first detailed in the学术期刊科学，并且被吹捧为一个肯定可以承受热量的新过程。
The HRL Laboratories team developed a pre-ceramic resin, which was engineered to more closely resemble a polymer material, able to be formed into much more complex shapes. The stereolithography process fuses together this ‘silicon carbide ceramic’ powder and into the desired design shape via UV light, marking the first instance that this specific type of ceramic-based powder has been utilized in 3D printing technology. Once the powder is fused together, the material is heated at about 1,800°F, which transforms the pre-ceramic material into actual ceramic objects. In comparison to FDM-like ceramic printing methods used, the silicon carbide powder prints in more detail with fewer flaws.
“The method described in the new Science paper brings us closer to the goal of being able to ‘engineer in’ desired material properties that generally are not found together, such as strength and low density or low weight, and to craft these materials into complex shapes,”Stefanie Tompkins说国防高级研究项目局（DARPA）国防科学办公室主任。
除了提高材料强度外，真正使HRL实验室前陶瓷树脂独特的是它能够承受的极端温度。对陶瓷粉末进行的测试证明了能够承受超过2,500°F的温度（对于使用适当的度量系统的人来说），甚至大多数金属材料都超过了。
The potential application for this new printing process extends way beyond ceramic-based arts and crafts, too; the heat resistant and tough characteristics of the pre-ceramic resin is perfectly fit for industries like aerospace. Whether it’s being used for a jet engine or a spaceship, one thing is for certain: the HRL Laboratories new ceramic-based printing method can definitely withstand the heat!
