A review on rock 3D printing: materials, structure, mechanics and application

Purpose Due to the complex structure and distinctiveness of natural rock samples, as well as the irreversible nature of destruction, it is essential to replicate them using three-dimensional (3D) printing. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the advantages and limitations of the existing 3D printing technology for rocks and point out the development direction. Design/methodology/approach This review elucidates the main materials used in rock 3D printing – gypsum, polymers, resin, ceramics, sand and rock-like geological materials. The strengths and weaknesses of 3D printing technology for rock replication were summarized. Finally, the development prospect of rock 3D printing is pointed out. Findings Currently, there is no material that can replicate natural rock in every way. Among these 3D printing materials, the composition of sand and rock-like materials is similar to some rock materials, while gypsum exhibits some similarity with natural rocks in terms of internal structure and deformation characteristics, but the above materials are not as strong as natural rock. Polymers and resins have advantages in replicating the internal structure and strength of the specified natural rocks, although their compositions are more different from natural rocks. Originality/value The author concludes that the current rock 3D printing is moving toward the direction of high simulation rock 3D printing with similar chemical composition, similar mechanical properties and similar internal structural features for integrated manufacturing. Finally, it was also observed that the utilization of Binder Jetting printing for the fabrication of rock-like materials represents a prospective avenue for the advancement of rock 3D printing. The authors expect that this review will provide new insights into the further technique development, rock-like materials and practical applications of rock 3D printing.