Application and materials development

AMCRC will investigate specialised industrial applications, design optimisation (DfAM) and materials tailored for defence, transport and healthcare. This includes enhancing feedstock efficiency via upcycling and scalable local production of metals, polymers and construction materials for additive manufacturing (AM) processes. Research Program 2 will focus on sustainable sourcing and optimising performance for new AM-specific designs in emerging industry-driven applications required by the CRC's partners.

Research activities

Exploring design methodologies leveraging AM's unique capabilities such as complex geometries, lightweight structures, and part consolidation, alongside investigating novel materials across metals, plastics, composites and ceramics, to optimise key properties of processibility, strength, durability, and thermal resistance

Methodology

Utilise generative design algorithms and topology optimisation techniques to create innovative designs optimised for AM. Conducting material synthesis and characterisation studies to understand materials' behaviour with various AM techniques 

Industry’s role

Offer input on design challenges, constraints, and opportunities for Design for AM (DfAM) adoption in real-world applications. Provide insights into material requirements based on application needs, and providing real-world product requirements and testing environments

Universities’ role

Conduct theoretical research on process modelling and control algorithms, validate them through simulations and experimental studies. Conduct fundamental research on material properties, innovative formulations, and processing routes crucial for viable and cost-effective commercial production