The Next Generation of Metal Additive Manufacturing

Dear Colleagues,

Metal additive processes have predominantly revolved around laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB or LPBF), a trend evident in both academic publications and general interest. Given the specific limitations of PBF-LB in material selection, geometry generation, and productivity, a growing interest in alternative processes has been observed in recent years. In this context, we are witnessing the emergence of innovative technologies, representing the next generation of additive manufacturing approaches.

These groundbreaking technologies encompass a diverse range of sinter-based processes, including 3D screen printing, gel casting, MoldJet, lithography-based metal manufacturing (LMM), cold metal fusion (CMF), liquid metal printing (LMP), and increasingly popular methods such as fused filament fabrication (FFF) and metal binder jetting. Additionally, alternative beam processes like electron beam melting (PBF-EB) are gaining traction. In comparison to LPBF, these technologies push the boundaries and limitations of additive manufacturing, offering a new horizon for AM. However, the published results, in some cases, exhibit significant variations, making it challenging for potential users to accurately assess the opportunities and risks associated with these potentially promising methods.

This Special Issue aims to shed light on the technical status of these emerging technologies—next-generation additive manufacturing. We invite researchers to submit articles that provide insightful examinations of these procedures. Potential topics include the consideration of materials that facilitate a comparison of properties with PBF-LB or materials that pose challenges or are impossible with PBF-LB, such as those that are difficult to weld or susceptible to hot cracking. Other, but not exclusive, topics include investigations into surface quality and geometric features differing from PBF-LB. In general, we welcome all cutting-edge research and activities related to the development of these new technologies, as well as supporting technologies related to these processes, such as feedstock development, heat treatment, and oven technologies.

Dr. Chongliang Zhong
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Metals is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• additive manufacturing
• 3D printing
• powder metallurgy
• 3D screen printing
• gel casting
• MoldJet
• lithography-based metal manufacturing (LMM)
• fused filament fabrication (FFF)
• metal binder jetting
• electron beam melting
• cold metal fusion (CMF)
• liquid metal printing (LMP)