2025 AIChE Annual Meeting

(186a) Enabling Complex Silica Glass Architectures through Polymer-Ceramic Hybrid Inks and 3D Printing

Authors

Kenan Song, Arizona State University
Amorphous silica glass is a critical material in advanced technologies due to its exceptional thermal, mechanical, and chemical stability. However, traditional manufacturing techniques restrict the complexity of achievable geometries and limit broader application. In this work, we demonstrate a direct ink writing (DIW) approach to fabricate silica glass composites using a novel blend of polymer and ceramic precursors. This method enables enhanced processability from shaping through sintering, while maintaining part quality and resolution. A bimodal particle size distribution is employed to reduce shrinkage and improve packing density, allowing for the production of intricate structures with minimal distortion. Additionally, this approach supports localized compositional tuning and the potential for integration with multi-material systems. Our results highlight the transformative potential of additive manufacturing in expanding the design space and functional capabilities of silica glass for use in optics, microelectronics, and thermal protection.