Chapter 5 - Vat photopolymerization methods in additive manufacturing

In 2012, the international committee on additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies categorized the AM processes into seven areas, which one of them is vat photopolymerization (VP). The principle of VP is the curing of a liquid photopolymer resin that is contained in a shallow vat. By laser scanning or mask projection using light in the ultraviolet spectrum, geometries and features are fabricated through selective photo-initiated cross-linking of the resin to form a solid matter, and following a layered fabrication method. VP methods are categorized as Stereolithography, digital light processing, and continuous liquid interface production. Different technologies are used, but they share a similar work principle. This chapter highlights some basics about the methods, applications, and technologies, for fabricating workpieces directly from 3D model data by means of a layer-based consolidation, in contrast to conventional subtractive and forming manufacturing methods. Additionally, we discuss some applications of the AM VP methods integrated with other manufacturing processes.