Eco-friendly additive manufacturing of metals: Energy efficiency and life cycle analysis

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jmsy.2021.06.011
• Publication Date: 2021-07-13T07:33:14Z
• Authors: Chongjie Gao; Sarah Wolff; Shiren Wang
• Keywords: 0203 mechanical engineering; 02 engineering and technology; 7. Clean energy; 12. Responsible consumption

Abstract Additive manufacturing (AM) of metal materials has attracted widespread attention and is shifting the conventional manufacturing landscape toward free-form processes. With increasing concerns about global sustainability, eco-consideration is highly encouraged to be integrated into AM processes. This review provides a comprehensive and timely discussion on the life cycle of metal parts fabricated through AM. The energy consumption required for raw metal material extraction and subsequent AM processes is analyzed. The eco-design and energy efficiency of metal AM are evaluated to reveal the role of manufacturing methods, machine subsystems, and post-processing modes in the eco-integration. AM-induced supply chain management, utilization, and recycling of the printed metal structure are also analyzed. Finally, a comprehensive life cycle assessment regarding the environmental, social, and economic impacts of metal AM is also addressed. Future directions of AM are also briefly discussed to provide insight and vision on the emerging field of additive eco-manufacturing.