Difficulties for 4D-printing
Because 4D printing is still a young technology, there are a number of challenges that need to be addressed before the technology can be implemented on a large scale. And the 3D printing equipment, which can also be used for 4D printing, is not yet profitable in combination with the high costs of the smart materials that can retain memory and time.
Secondly,
the reliability and longevity of the memory-containing materials still need to
be investigated. These materials are currently still used for research, so
there is still a gap with actual scale application. Because this is not yet
clear, it is also difficult to determine the potential environmental effect. If
the technology turns out to be much more polluting than other technologies that
can make transport and storage more efficient, then the technology may not be
able to deliver its added value in the production industry. This is because
customers are increasingly demanding a product that is produced in a more
environmentally friendly way. However, 4D printing could be applied in markets
that do not have pollution as a priority. An example of this could be in
healthcare. Human tissue engineering, with the help of 4D printing, could
release a drug once it reaches the patient's body temperature. This means that
surgery would not be necessary and can therefore be chosen in some cases, even
though the product is not completely environmentally friendly.
The
programmable material is susceptible to hacking and software bugs. This would
provide an opening for criminal purposes or increase the susceptibility to
errors. Finally, the liability of the technology is also a possible problem. If
a product breaks down, is the manufacturer, the developer of the material or a
medical specialist liable? Country-specific and/or global agreements must be
made for this.
Used sources for this blog
4D-printing makes shape shifting possible
What you need to know about 3D-printing
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