Unlocking the Potential of Transparent 3D Printing Service with SLA

With the aid of Stereolithography (SLA) technology, the currently available methods of 3D printing are being enhanced. SLA 3D printing translates into simplified designs for sophisticated and precise components such as transparent engineering parts used in healthcare and other consumer goods. SLA transparent 3D printing provides optical clarity and detail to prototypes used in depicting internal structures or even aesthetic designs. This paper outlines the methods employed in SLA manufacturing of transparent parts, the benefits of Stereolithography approaches, and the new possibilities in numerous fields. Prepare for detailed insights on the other possible SLA developments around this technology.

What is Transparent 3D Printing and How Does it Work?

Transparent 3D printing refers to the production of parts with clear or see-through features, typically used when it is necessary to see through the part. This technique is often ideal for resin-based 3D printing The most common method to achieve this is by stereolithography (SLA) where a laser is projected to a liquid resin vat and cures the resin one layer at a time into the object. Transparency is desired in specialty resins, requiring further processes like sanding, polishing, and coating to improve clarity. The result is high precision and unmatched smoothness with optical clarity perfect for prototypes, the model serves as an intermediate component in an optical system or another device.

Understanding Transparent Materials in 3D Printing

In sectors where clarity and accuracy are critical, transparent 3D printing materials are in high demand. Such industries use these materials for the prototyping of consumer products, optical lenses, light guides, and even architectural models. Designers and engineers can assess the light transmission, internal structures, and aesthetics of a product or project effectively using such materials. These areas make use of innovation and functional testing because of the high detail and transparency the product provides, which makes them an essential tool across many fields.

The Role of SLA in Creating Clear Parts

Stereolithography (SLA) is highly capable of producing clear parts owing to its accuracy and material features. It employs photopolymer resins designed for transparency, which allows for the precise production of accurately detailed parts with smooth surfaces. This makes SLA highly applicable in optically demanding areas such as lenses, fluid flow models, and light guides. Furthermore, SLA parts can be further enhanced visually and functionally through post-processing techniques like sanding and polishing to meet the rigid requirements of clarity.

How 3D Printing Services Enhance Transparency

By utilizing fine resins and 3D printing technologies like stereolithography (SLA), 3D printing services improve visibility. These resins are specifically tailored to reduce imperfections and scattering, thus producing parts with superb optical clarity. Furthermore, surface polishing and other post-processing techniques improve the finish of the components, ensuring smooth surfaces and proper light diffusion. With precise optimization of materials and manufacturing processes, 3D printing services can create transparent components for product and optics design where light and visibility are crucial.

Which 3D Printing Technologies Produce the Best Transparent Parts?

Comparing SLA and FDM for Transparent Objects

Stereolithography (SLA) and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) are two of the most popular methods of 3D printing, which differ greatly in their capacity to manufacture transparent components. SLA is usually considered the best option for achieving high transparency because of accuracy and material characteristics. SLA printers make use of liquid photopolymer resins that are cured by a laser which results in smooth highly detailed surfaces that require very little post-processing to enhance transparency. Certain SLA materials such as clear resin are specially designed to provide outstandingly high clarity to light. SLA-printed parts with good finishing methods such as sanding and polishing can reach 90% optical transparency. This makes these parts useful in the manufacture of lenses, light guides, and other accurate optical instruments.

Moreover, FDM saws into parts using a contoured blade and relying on extruding thermoplastic filaments are not very effective in making transparent objects. Despite the availability of transparent polycarbonate (PC) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) filaments for FDM, the extrusion layering results in striations with trapped air that leads to loss of clarity in the final product. It is also difficult to achieve acetone vapor smoothened SLA comparability in transparency even after postprocessing is done. While FDM could be usable in the cases of prototyping or functional parts with optical standards being low, it becomes more complex in the domains with refined highly transparent products.

In the end, SLA is determined to be the better option for SLA needing products due to its clarity and precision when used with transparent products whereas FDM is still good for less demanding tasks for projects especially where the budget is an issue.

The Advantages of Stereolithography for Clear Prints

Exceptional Optical Clarity

This method achieves high optical clarity due to SLA technology’s layer-by-layer liquid resin curing with a UV laser which is smoother than FDM. SLA eliminates more surface roughness that can scatter light because it has finer details and smoother surfaces than FDM.

High Precision and Detailed Features

SLA practitioners are famous for their precision, with some regularly applying 25-micron layer resolution. This SLA precision is important in construction works where geometries are intricate and highly detailed transparent parts are required.

Material Flexibility

The SLA resins specially formulated for transparency take advantage of the material’s enhanced light transmission properties. They have very little coloration and haze, therefore they are great candidates for lenses, light guides, and decorative clear components.

The most important in achieving transparent resin 3D printing is the Post-Processing for Maximum Transparency.

SLA prints can achieve transparency more like glass through effective post-processing techniques like sanding, polishing, coating, and others. These steps give improved visual appearance as well as better material transparency.

Use in Prototyping and End Products

SLAS is often used in optical, automotive, and medical industries due to its ability to manufacture precise and optically clear parts. It is particularly useful in producing prototypes of display covers and fluid flow models that require high clarity and accuracy.

Reduced Material Waste

SLA is closed with a resin vat meaning, the material is only used during the printing process which results in lower waste comparatively to other 3D printing methods. This efficiency, in addition to the high-quality output, makes SLA cost-effective for clear parts.

SLA makes it easy for engineers and designers to achieve outstanding quality and functionality in clear 3D objects, which is ideal for high-precision projects.

Choosing the Right 3D Printer for Transparency

There are different kinds of 3D printers designed for production and each one has specific features unique to it. About 3D printers, these features – referred to as ‘aspects’ – include the technology type, the material it is capable of processing, the resolution it can achieve, and most importantly, the aspects related to post-processor work required. Some of the other important details include but are not limited to, the printing technique, compatibility with different types of composite materials, and respect for the level of detail and clarity achievable.

3D printing: implementation of SLA and advances in resin 3D printing are expanding rapidly throughout the world region.

Now, most people who work in the field will say that stereolithography (SLA) and Digital Light Processing (DLP) systems are the best for printers that create transparent parts. This is primarily due to the level of accuracy and smoothness these printers are capable of achieving. In the case of SLA printers, there is a laser that uses photosensitive resin which it cures. On the other hand, DLP printers use a digital light projector to get the same results. These two technologies are at their best when working with delicate features, like prototypes, or functioning optical pieces that are made using optical glass.

Material Properties

The qualitative nature of components revolves around the healed resin’s performance when subjected to post curing process accurately termed “self-healing”. For the clear 3D printer resins There are Separator of Special Form and Other Clear Resins that offer maximum and minimum light scattering capabilities. These makers attempt to meet optimal conditions for achieving glass-type surfaces. Deciding which will serve particular clear polycarbonate applications requires understanding the polymers’ refractive index, tensile strength, and suitability to ultraviolet radiation.

Resolution and Build Size

A 3D printer’s resolution indicates the layer thickness and surface quality that can be achieved. Printers with a layer resolution of 25 microns are perfect for achieving optimum smoothness and transparency. Also, the build volume should be sufficient for the intended applications which ensures that the printer can accommodate small, detailed components as well as larger models.

Post-Processing Capabilities

Post-processing steps are important to improve the clarity of parts manufactured through 3D printing machines. The optical quality of printed parts can be enhanced through proper cleaning, sanding, and polishing. Some 3D printers have post-curing stations that can boost the strength and clarity of the material used. In addition, the final product can be improved through a clear coat or UV treatment for enhanced reflection.

Cost Efficiency and Application Needs

Some of the top SLA printers like the Form 3+ or the Peopoly Phenom come with exceptional results, but they may be expensive. More economical options like the Anycubic Photon Mono X also provide excellent clarity and are more affordable, makingthem ideal for personal use or low-volume professional use. Finding the balance between cost and functional requirements is key to an informed investment.

Further Measures of Performance

Studies show that the use of SLA technology enables the transmission of well over 90% with advanced resins, almost replicating real glass. This is important for the performance of optical systems in the transparent covering of camera lenses, light pipes, and even some medical devices where the optics are critical. Moreover, the higher accuracy leads to less post-processing effort on the transparent resin 3D prints, which is beneficial for both time and cost.

By considering these parameters, users can choose a 3D printer that meets their particular transparency needs with the highest levels of dependability and economy. There is continuous development of new formulations of resins and the design of 3D printers which are inexorably increasing the possibilities of obtaining transparent parts.

How to Achieve Perfect Transparency in 3D Printed Parts?

Best Practices for Using Transparent Resin

Choose High-Quality Transparent Resin

When aiming for perfect clarity, utilizing a good quality clarity-oriented UV curable resin is a must. Resins made for clear 3D printing tend to have low shrinkage rates as well as very low discoloration with minimal change over time making them impractical for use and ensuring clear results. Strive to attain the visibility of utmost clarity by searching for optical grade resins.

Optimize Printing Parameters  

Confirm that the printers are properly set up for the use of transparent resin. Over-curing will make some areas cloudy so use low exposure times. Additionally, adjust the layer height, smaller layer heights (for example, 0.025 mm) increase the smoothness and reduce the height of the layer lines which improves the transparency of the part in the final stages of the fabrication.

Utilize Proper Post-Processing Techniques  

Post-processing techniques are essential for improving the transparency of the printed parts. Begin by gently flooding the printed part with isopropyl alcohol to wash away uncured resin. Be careful not to wash too long, or it may cause damage to the surface. Follow with curing the part with UV light and then gentle sanding to eliminate surface roughness starting with 600 grit sandpaper up to 2000 grit. For great clarity, finish with a polishing compound.

Preserve Optimal Conditions in the Environment

The conditions within the environment must be adequate during the printing and curing processes of any task. Achieving good ventilation along with stable temperature and humidity reduces the chances of cracks or lack of clarity. Proper storage of resin is important too; it should always be kept in dark and cool locations to retain its effectiveness as well as transparency.

Understand the Concept of Refractive Index Matching

For tasks that involve the resin part interfacing with other clear materials such as glass or acrylics, you need to pay attention to the refractive index of the resin. A refractive index is the ability of resins to allow light to pass through them without distortion. Knowledge of resins having high transparency allows for optimal visual output since it reduces distortion. Having the right knowledge of compatibility makes work easier.

Measurement of Transparency

Parts that are printed must undergo measurements for their transparency and lens or color filters, meters and spectrophotometers can be a helping tool. A haze value lower than one percent indicates near-perfect round optical clarity thus are advanced parts suitable for lenses or light diffusers.

Adequate best practices and the use of high-quality materials result in optimal transparency of 3D printed parts, be it functional or aesthetic. Through care and precision during the entire process, individuals are given the ability to maximize the use of transparent resin printing.

Post-Processing Techniques for Smooth Surfaces

Achieving smooth surfaces on 3D-printed parts requires thorough post-processing. Commence sanding with a coarse grit (i.e., 200 – 400) and go up to fine grit (800-2000) for polishing. Do not apply too much pressure to keep the structural integrity of the part.

Once sanding is complete, further enhancement using a polishing compound or buffing wheel is reapplied. Applying a resin clear coat with dip enhances smoothness and clarity for the transparent parts. Before any coating, ensure the part is fully clean and dry for the best outcome.

For optimal outcome, ensure to always follow manufacturer post-processing and material recommendations for quality and durability of the part.

Polishing and Coating for Optically Clear Results

For 3D-printed parts or any other type of fabricated component, obtaining an optically clear finish requires a robust combination of advanced coating and polishing techniques. Research suggests that wet sanding with finer grits (starting at around 400 and going to 3000 or higher) has a dramatic impact on surface smoothness. This process improves surface quality by eliminating visible layer lines and preparing the area for additional polishing. Moreover, the addition of water or other lubricants during the sanding process helps in minimizing the build-up of heat and resulting micro-abrasions.

After the sanding process is complete, remaining surface imperfections can be eliminated with high-performance polishing compounds that often contain fine abrasives. For final application, polishing compounds can be applied using a rotary or orbital polishing tool which gives a near-mirror finish. According to the data, applying a specially formulated polish that has a particle size of 1 micron or smaller gives the best surface clarity with the least amount of material removal.

For components requiring optical clarity, clear coats or resins are widely used. Modern polyurethane and UV-curable clear coats offer the best optical clarity while also providing superior scratch resistance and warranty protection. Coatings, when dried in a relatively clean room, can greatly optimize clarity through irradiance by surface imperfections while residual scattering causes surface roughness. Furthermore, even coating application using spraying, brushing or dipping is also important in avoiding unbalanced finishes or distortion figures.

For domestic applications like optical lenses or transparent boxes, heat-curing resins and lenses can also aid in raising the hardness and clearness of the material. Optimization of curing times and temperatures for particular materials can give positive results. All industrial optics are recommended to be done with high-quality materials and equipment to ensure the reliable optical quality of the products.

What Materials are Best for Transparent 3D Printing?

Exploring Different Transparent Plastics

In the case of transparent 3D printing, the choice of material is important for the achievement of maximum clearness and effectiveness. Polycarbonate (PC), Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), and Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG) are some of the most readily available materials for 3D printing, each having properties that make them suitable for different applications.

1. Polycarbonate (PC): With a high volume of 88-92 percent, PC is one of the most preferred materials for optic apparatus parts, prototyping components, and even safety gear because of its great clarity. In addition to this, polycarbonate also has a good level of heat resistance (up to 120 Degrees Celsius) which allows for its usage in higher temperature conditions. While polycarbonate holds a good heat resistance, internal stresses which can lower transparency are often caused requiring specialized extrusion and handling procedures to prevent. PC is frequently utilized for highly industrial paints because of its great strength and impact resistance. With a light transmission rate of more than 88-92%, PC produces high optical clarity. This makes it a favorable choice for prototyping, safety equipment, and optical components.
2. Polymethyl MethAcrylate (PMMA): Considered a less durable substitute for Polycarbonate, PMMA still delivers stunning transparency with light transmission going beyond 92 percent. In comparison to PMMA, standard glass comes out as stronger due to its scratch resistance and better capability to withstand UV light. Because Cloudy PMMA has the most pleasant white color, it’s a desired ingredient to combine in beautifying display cases, lighting utensils, and decorative parts. When processing PMMA, TMP not only lowers the amount of distortion but also significantly enhances the level of transparency achieved. However, the improved level of aesthetics comes at the cost of making conventional glass more breakable.
3. Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG): PETG is relatively easy to work with and gives a good enough finish, so it is often selected for prototyping and functional components. It also performs well in getting a clear finish as light transmission rates are around 90%, which is similar to PC. Moreover, it is easier to manufacture due to the flexibility, chemical resistance, and low thermal shrinkage of PETG when compared to PMMA’s brittleness and thermal resistance. PETG is particularly beneficial for projects that require functional features and aesthetic appeal at the same time.

Every clear plastic has its advantages, and the right one is dependent upon the application’s mechanical, optical, and environmental features. Recent improvements in these materials in terms of formulating resins, adding fillers, and achieving better UV block stability along with lower warping and greater durability are also possible.

Benefits and Limitations of Clear Resin

In my opinion, the most distinguished features of clear resin are its optical clarity, range of uses, and ability to capture minute details precisely. It is especially valuable in the fabrication of prototypes or parts that require a high-quality finished appearance. Nevertheless, I appreciate some of the drawbacks of clear resins like possible brittleness and UV sensitivity which may require further treatments or additives to increase strength and resistance. In summary, its efficiency on the project is highly dependent on the particulars of the assignment.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Prototype

Choosing the right material for your prototype depends on what your project needs. First, think of the main features your prototype needs to accomplish- is it strong, flexible, optically clear, or can it withstand heat? For mechanical prototypes, ABS or polycarbonate are great choices due to their strength and impact resistance. Whereas, for intricate visual models, clear resins or PLA are better suited because they capture fine details more easily. You must also take into consideration some environmental factors like temperature or UV exposure, as these could greatly impact the material’s performance. Always try to use materials that meet the functional as well as the aesthetic requirements of your prototype ultimately achieving the desired outcome.

What are the Applications of Transparent 3D Printed Parts?

Industries Benefiting from Transparent Prototypes

Transparent 3D pieces are extremely valuable in several industries. In my experience, these parts are commonly used in the automotive and aerospace industries for producing lucid models of lenses, light covers, as well as sophisticated fluid flow models. The medical field also makes use of these parts for imaging surgical instruments or anatomical models for proper planning and training. The consumer goods sector also uses transparent prototypes to create and test product enclosures and packaging for aesthetic and practical purposes. These examples show the wide range of applications of transparent prototypes that aid in solving intricate design and engineering problems.

Custom Parts and On-Demand 3D Printing Services

The introduction of bespoke 3D printing and on-demand manufacturing services has provided industries with new strategies with which to tackle prototyping and production. Such services offer tailored assistance in the manufacture of components that require specific features, such as complex geometries and exacting tolerances. Due to progress in material science and printer technologies, industries can now obtain an ever-growing list of materials, which now includes clear resins, advanced thermoplastics, and even composite materials, for particular applications.

As per the latest market research, on-demand 3D printing is reporting significantly positive adoption trends. The value of the global 3D printing services market is projected to grow from approximately $16 billion in 2022 to over $50 billion by 2030. This will be possible due to the increasing scalability and cost-efficiency of printing services. This growth is evident across key sectors such as healthcare, automotive, and consumer electronics, where rapid prototyping and manufacturing flexibility are critical. The construction of custom transparent parts has recently seen increased attention from engineers and designers who wish to explore internal structures, fluid dynamic behavior, or optical features of precision instruments.

A key aspect of on-demand 3D printing is its ability to cut down on lead times. In traditional manufacturing, processes such as tooling and setup can take weeks or even months. With on-demand printing, parts can be digitally designed and manufactured in days which drastically improves production schedules. Additive manufacturing also eliminates a lot more waste when compared to subtractive techniques, making it a greener option for prototypes and low-volume production runs.

These services are reinventing design and manufacturing processes, increasing the speed with which companies can pay less and get products into the market. With the use of modern technology and a wide range of materials, 3D on-demand printing is challenging the limits of what is now custom manufacturing work.

Innovative Uses of Transparent 3D Printing

The advances in industries that require transparent and precise components that are 3D printed have shifted the scope of manufacturing capabilities. Transparent 3D printing Significantly applies in the medical field where the specific method of 3D printing is used to manufacture biomedical education tools for surgeries and other medical procedures. Considering the big picture, manufacturing transparent anatomical models enables surgeons to visualize complex structures like motorized vascular systems or internal organs which increases the possibility of accurate diagnoses as well as favorable surgical results. Models created for specific patients have been shown to increase efficiency and safety by decreasing operative time by up to 20 percentage points with certain procedures.

Another important area of application includes described 3D Printers for Optical Engineering. These machines enable the production of a wide array of optical devices and components like lenses, light guides, etc. on the computer. The use of advanced materials with sufficient light transmission and custom optical elements functionality like cameras, sensors, and head-mounted displays avails high precision at reduced costs. The need for traditional molding processes is eliminated consequently increasing the rate of development of prototype devices.

Industries such as automotive and aerospace also capitalize on this technology, especially with the use of transparent resin 3D printing for models and components. Parts made of resin are used to make whips that are light in weight and strong in substance for both aerodynamic modeling and superficial examination of fluid movement in complicated systems. With the use of these materials, engineers can improve the design by getting rid of inefficiencies without having to use opaque metal or plastic. The formulation of these materials is such that they can be kept clean and undamaged while being exposed to a variety of stressed conditions. This greatly increases the performance of transparent resin 3D printing.

Finally, transparent 3D printing is becoming popular in the process of developing consumer products. Examples include transparent cases for electronic devices, and unique and stylish customized jewelry and other accessories. Not only does transparency look good, but it serves as a designer’s delight because it allows for the production of complex works that address both beauty and functionality. The continued development of these fields will inevitably lead to a more diverse range of sectors to adopt this technology.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is SLA 3D printing and how does it differ from other 3D printing processes?

A: SLA (Stereolithography) 3D printing is an additive manufacturing technique in which a laser scans a surface to cure resin progressively “growing” the model in stages. It can be employed for the production of clear parts for a range of applications. FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) is a different SLA technique that extrudes melted plastic through a nozzle. SLA also has a better resolution while having a smoother surface finish, and is much more preferable for clear 3D models and plastic 3D printing.

Q: What are the advantages of using clear 3D printed parts in product design?

A: There are multiple benefits with clear 3D printed parts such as the ability to fabricate light pipes, demonstrate internal features, and visually appealing prototypes. Those are especially popular in automotive and medical industries or consumer electronics where parts are required to be transparent either for functionality or aesthetic purposes.

Q: How does the 3D printing material affect the transparency of the final product?

A: The choice of 3D printing material greatly defines the degree of transparency of the final part. SLA resins specifically designed for clarity have far superior optical properties than standard resins. The optical quality of the printed parts also depends on some factors like layer thickness and post-processing methods.

Q: Can SLA 3D Printing create completely transparent parts? Or are most parts glass-like in their appearance?

A: SLA 3D printing does create highly transparent parts. However, achieving perfection often involves post-processing and polishing. At first glance, the translucent parts that come off the printer are due to layering. However, sanding and polishing can be performed, giving the part a near-optical clarity, and achieving perfect finishing.

Q: What post-processing techniques are implemented in a bid to increase the clarity of SLA 3D Printing parts?

A: To improve the clarity of printed parts, SLA undergoes polishing and sanding to remove the above-mentioned lines and make them have a smoother surface. There is also a better approach which involves dipping the created part in resin or application of a clear coat to improve the transparency of the printed parts. Some of the new techniques involve vapor smoothing as well as specialized clear resins that are designed to have almost no post-processing.

Q: How does the quality of printed parts of transparent SLA compare to FDM 3D printing results?

A: The SLA 3D printing process is more effective in producing transparent components than FDM printing. The SLA has better resolution, surface smoothness, as well as optical clarity. FDM parts are often printed with rough layer lines which leads to lesser transparency of the finished part compared to SLA.

Q: Which industries gain the most value from receiving services related to 3D printing of clear plastic parts?

A: The most considerable clear plastic 3D printing users are from the automotive industry (for developing light assembly prototypes), medical (for anatomical models and device prototypes), consumer electronics (for internal component mockups), and product design (for visual prototypes). These sectors take advantage of clear 3D-printed components to achieve both functional and aesthetic objectives.

Q: What is the process for acquiring a transparent 3D printing service quote through SLA that is instant?

A: Most 3D printing service companies have websites that allow you to submit a 3D model file and receive an automatic quote. These systems often let you choose materials such as clear resins, and they provide pricing estimates based on part volume, level of detail, number of pieces, etc. Some services also have professional consultants available to guarantee that the results meet your needs.

Reference Sources

1. Flexible Transparent Electrodes for Severe Conditions

• Author: Jianjun Yang et al.
• Journal: Advanced Materials & Technologies
• Published on: November 18, 2021
• Citations: 18
• Summary: A novel low-cost process to fabricate flexible transparent electrodes (HFTEs) was developed with the use of electric field-driven micro-scale 3D printing of silver mesh onto a colorless polyimide film. The HFTEs demonstrated excellent optoelectronic properties such as 4.82 Ω sq−1 resistance and 92.26% transmittance. The electrodes were stable under various harsh conditions like bending cycles and chemical attacks. The study indicates the feasibility of using these methods in the flexible electronics industry(Yang et al., 2021).

2. 3D-printed Patient-Specific ACL Femoral Tunnel Guide from MRI.  

• Authors: I. Rankin et al.
• Journal: The Open Orthopaedics Journal.
• Publication Date: 28 February, 2018.
• Citations: 11
• Summary: This study aims to devise a 3D-printed individual guide for the anatomy of the femoral tunnel in ACL reconstruction surgery with the help of MRI scans. The study also measures the accuracy of these guides which were constructed from transparent acrylic and other materials. The results indicate that such guides have the potential to enhance surgical performance in conjunction with precise anatomical reference tools (Rankin et al., 2018, pp. 59–68).

3. Dispersion and Refractive Index of 3D Printing Transparent Photoresist

• Author: Mateo Reynoso, et al.
• Journal: Optical Materials Express
• Published: 01-10-2021
• Citation: 11
• Review: This work aims to record the refractive index values of a series of 3D printing photoresins within the visible range of the spectrum. It also gives the important values of the optical characteristics of the materials that are required in the construction of devices like optical lenses. The results of the study showed that the tested resins had refractive indices ranging from 1.505 to 1.533, which is one of the required properties for manufacturing transparent optical elements(Reynoso et al., 2021, pp. 3392–3397).

4. The Advanced Materials and Technologies Journal Outlines the Printing, Characterizing, and Assessing of Transparent 3D Lenses for Optical Imaging

• Author: L. Rooney et al.
• Publication Date: May 7, 2024
• Citations: 2
• Summary: In this research, we demonstrate the development of a cost-effective approach for creating transparent 3D printed lenses of high quality with consumer technology. For comparison, the lenses were measured in their optical performance and tested against commercial-grade glass lenses. The findings reveal that the imaging lenses made with 3D printing technology have reasonable optical characteristics that can be utilized in optical imaging. (Rooney et al., 2024).

5. Stereolithography

6. 3D printing