Engineers from the University of New Mexico (UNM), a public research institution recognized for its work in advanced construction materials, have patented a bendable concrete designed for 3D printing. Researchers in the Gerald May Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering aimed to address brittleness, high labor costs, and dangers associated with traditional building methods. This new composite, classified as self-reinforced ultra-ductile cementitious material, may herald more resilient infrastructure while reducing dependence on steel bars and heavy machinery. Traditional concrete is renowned for its strength under compression but is inherently brittle, leading to frequent cracks and the need for regular maintenance in infrastructure such as sidewalks and bridges. Maryam Hojati, assistant professor in UNM’s Gerald May Department, highlighted this limitation as a primary motivation for their research. “Concrete by itself does not show any tensile properties,” Hojati explained. To address this, the team incorporated short polymer fibers into the concrete… read more
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3D scanner manufacturer Revopoint has introduced the MIRACO Plus 3D scanner with a Revopoint Photogrammetric Metrology Kit (PMK). Features of the MIRACO Plus 3D Scanner The Revopoint MIRACO Plus 3D Scanner offers precision, innovation, and speed in one device. Image via Revopoint. The MIRACO Plus 3D Scanner, what the company claims to be the “world’s first” is a comprehensive 3D scanning and photogrammetric metrology solution around $2,000, and features advanced technology to capture large objects with high accuracy. It combines photogrammetric metrology and global coordinate calculation to enhance volumetric accuracy. The scanner’s intuitive software allows for quick processing of global marker coordinates and smooth transitions to point cloud scanning directly on the device. Users can transfer photogrammetric models to a PC via Wi-Fi or USB-C, facilitating easy import into third-party software. The scanner provides single-frame accuracy of up to 0.04 mm and supports scanning speeds of up to 20 frames… read more
Researchers at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow have created a fully 3D printed and low cost microscope for histological imaging. Based on OpenFlexure‘s open-source design, the device incorporates 3D printed mechanical and optical components alongside a Raspberry Pi for control, an LED light source for illumination, and an affordable off-the-shelf camera. Weighing just 3 kg, the microscope can be assembled in three hours at an estimated cost of £50 ($60). This study is published in the bioRvix journal. As reported by New Scientist, Gail McConnell Professor of Biophotonics at the University, highlighted the impact of their work. She stated that her team had earlier devised a technique for 3D printing lenses commonly used in microscopes, a development that played a crucial role in achieving this milestone. Measuring the resolution of a fully 3D printed microscope post-acquisition chromatic correction. Image via University of Strathclyde. Affordability with 3D printed optics Key… read more
Medical device company Ortho Solutions has signed a binding agreement to acquire Meshworks, a specialist in custom orthopedic implants. The acquisition aims to strengthen Ortho Solutions’ position in the foot and ankle medical device market. Image Credit: orthospinenews.com Meshworks, previously part of the Alloyed group, develops patient-specific orthopedic implants using additive manufacturing technology. The company combines expertise from multiple disciplines, including orthopedic design, additive manufacturing, software engineering, and metallurgy, with its team operating from facilities connected to Oxford and Imperial College London. The acquisition brings together Meshworks’ custom 3D printing capabilities with Ortho Solutions’ existing foot and ankle care portfolio. Meshworks has established itself as a leading provider of additively manufactured extremity implants in the UK market, offering a streamlined design process for surgeons. Ortho Solutions CEO and Co-Founder Eliot Clare commented on the acquisition: “We are delighted with the opportunity to integrate Meshworks into the Ortho Solutions Group of… read more
UK-based metal 3D printing powder manufacturer Metalysis installed three new Gen 1 units at its Discovery Centre in Catcliffe, Rotherham, increasing its first-stage research capabilities by a third. These Gen 1 R&D systems are used in the first step of Metalysis’ Fray, Farthing, and Chen (FFC) Cambridge electrolysis method for producing 3D printable metal alloy powders. The process is scaled across the company’s Gen 1-4 units, with material output increasing from grams per machine run with the Gen 1, to tens of tonnes per annum via the Gen 4. Metalysis’ new systems, which bring its total suite of Gen 1 units to 12, have been added in response to “unprecedented” demand from the high entropy alloy (HEA) and commercial space sectors. They will be used to develop novel materials for advanced applications in hypersonics, defense, clean energy, and space “We are delighted to be expanding Metalysis’ development capabilities by increasing… read more
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- Cobra Golf Expands 3D Printed Iron Lineup with MB and X Models
- Airtech and Alpha Additive Create 3,000 lb LFAM Structure
- Continuum Powders Launches Copper-Nickel Alloys for High-Performance, Sustainable AM
- MPI Develops XRD System for Industrial and Academic Research
