3D Bioplotter Research Papers

Complex shapes are created from Yb14MnSb11, a high-temperature thermoelectric Zintl phase, via a two-step process: i) layer-by-layer 3D-extrusion of ink containing partially-reacted powders which are ball-milled from a blend of Yb, MnSb, and Sb powders; ii) heat treatment to synthesize the ternary compound Yb14MnSb11 and densify the extruded powders. A high phase purity for Yb14MnSb11 (83–94%) is achieved in both cast and 3D-extruded ink specimens via a solid-state reaction between Yb, MnSb, and Yb4Sb3 during reactive sintering. Pressure-free sintering at temperatures of 1200–1400 °C densifies the powders to 82% relative density but can also induce the decomposition of the Yb14MnSb11 phase…