Biopolymers: opportunities and challenges for 3D printing

Abstract The chapter overviews additive manufacturing/3D printing techniques used for the processing of biopolymers. Various biopolymers such as alginate, starch, cellulose, chitosan lignin, polylactic acid, and polycaprolactone are elaborately discussed to illustrate the formulation challenges, along with a comprehensive study of their intrinsic properties, processing parameters, and product specifications. It also highlights the formation of tailor-made structures for targeted application in the food industry, consumer products, biomedical field, and aerospace applications. Finally, the chapter presents future perspectives and provides a way to overcome the challenges associated with the 3D printing of biopolymers.