| Abstract Scope |
Since its inception, additive manufacturing (AM) has been synonymous with geometric design freedom. However, the disruptive potential of AM goes beyond the fabrication of parts with complex shape. By employing variable processing parameters during AM, it is possible to control the formation of dissimilar microstructures within the same build. This capability enables novel materials designs by arranging the attainable microstructures into complex architectures as if they were pieces of a LEGO construction set. In this talk, I will present different AM strategies that demonstrate this “microstructure design freedom”. I will also describe the unique functionalities imparted by some of these microstructure architectures, and discuss future opportunities to leverage the combined geometric and microstructure design freedom to produce engineering alloys with improved performance. |