The ability to 3D print titanium-alloy objects certainly does open up some intriguing possibilities. That said, the finished items aren’t always as strong as they could be. Now, new research suggests that adding copper to those alloys could make a big difference.

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Typically, when objects are being 3D printed out of titanium alloy, a laser is used to selectively melt a powder consisting of titanium particles and other chemical elements. In this fashion, items are built up a layer at a time, as each layer of melted powder cools into a solid. According to scientists at Australia’s RMIT University, however, problematic column-shaped crystals form within the material as it cools and bonds. These ultimately make the end product more prone to cracking and distortion. And unfortunately – unlike the case with some […]

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