Solid freeform (SFF) and additive fabrication processes are defining a revolutionary approach for materials manufacturing, leading to a capability for producing parts quicker, cheaper and with more functionality than previously thought possible. The key aspect of these direct fabrication techniques is the ability to deposit or build up material only where it is required to produce finished or nearly finished parts. While tremendous engineering progress has been made in this field, materials issues associated with layer-wise additive processes are just beginning to be addressed in a comprehensive manner. This book brings together experts in the SFF field to discuss recent developments in the processing of ceramics, metals, polymers, and composites, with a focus on the processing-structure-property relationships associated with these freeform and additive fabrication techniques. Topics include: organics, composites and laser CVD; direct metal fabrication; ceramic freeform fabrication; and ceramic freeform and layered direct fabrication.
