The Potential of Lithography-based Metal Manufacturing in Customizing Biomedical Parts

Lithography-based Metal Manufacturing (LMM) is a sinter-based additive manufacturing process capable of producing functional metal components with intricate geometries and fine feature resolution. The mechanical properties obtained through LMM are comparable to those of Metal Injection Molding (MIM), with surface roughness values (Ra) of less than 2 µm. The flexibility in design inherent to LMM allows for the fabrication of complex and customized geometries, making it a viable method for producing medical devices such as dental and surgical tools. These applications highlight the potential of LMM in advancing medical manufacturing through the production of highly intricate, patient-specific components.

In this presentation, we examine recent developments in biomedical applications of LMM, with a focus on dentistry and surgical instrumentation. Alloys such as stainless steels and titanium are commonly employed, underscoring the adaptability of LMM in meeting the material and functional requirements of the healthcare sector. Furthermore, we discuss how LMM’s capability to produce lightweight, biocompatible metal parts expands its application in medical technologies, offering new avenues for innovation in personalized healthcare solutions.