Research progress on bio-inspired composite structures based on ceramic 3D printing: a review

Abstract Ceramic materials demonstrate great application potential in multiple fields such as aerospace and biomedical engineering due to their excellent mechanical properties, high-temperature resistance, and good biocompatibility, but their inherent brittleness and processing defects urgently need to be broken through. Inspired by the biological structures found in nature, the integration of biomimicry and additive manufacturing (AM) technologies offers a new pathway for the innovative design of high-performance ceramic materials. This article systematically reviews the fundamental principles and classifications of ceramic AM technology, focusing on six typical elements of biomimetic structural design: coaxial composite structures, surface reinforcement structures, layered composite structures, porous structures, composite multicomponent structures, and intelligent bionic structures. The review delves into their biomimetic principles, preparation strategies, performance advantages, and research progress. Research indicates that through multiscale topological design and functional integration, these structures can significantly enhance the mechanical properties and environmental adaptability of ceramics. Nevertheless, current technologies still face numerous challenges in balancing manufacturing precision and efficiency, controlling cracks and residual stresses caused by interface defects, ensuring long-term material stability under extreme environments, enhancing intelligent response capabilities, and guaranteeing process scalability and performance consistency in clinical applications. Future research should integrate multidisciplinary approaches to optimize structural design and dynamic response, transforming biomimetic ceramic materials from ‘biological replication’ to ‘performance exceeding’, thereby providing theoretical and technical support for the customized development of high-performance ceramic devices.