Critical review of the state of the art in multi-material fabrication via directed energy deposition. Issue 4 (August 2021) - Feenstra, D.R.
Highlights: A visual cataloguing of the research on multi-material fabrication via DED completed to date is presented. A critical review of the emerging design approaches and strategies used in multi-material DED. Review of the present challenges facing multi-material fabrication via DED. Recommendations for future work to address the most pressing needs in multi-material fabrication via DED. Abstract: Directed energy deposition (DED) is an additive manufacturing technique that employs laser melting to permit for the free form manufacturing of components from many input materials from powder or wire form of feedstock. The nature of DED processes and advancements thereof has led to research that has been aimed at leveraging this additive manufacturing technology for the fabrication of high-value metallic alloys in addition to the exploration of multi-material composites and components – many of which are only possible to produce via DED. Herein, a critical review of the present body of research regarding DED of multi-materials is presented. Assessed are the developing research trends, design methodologies, common issues and challenges, as well as identification of the areas where further research should be directed.