Branched polymer binder fluid for denser binder-jetted parts
This technology improves binder jetting, a form of 3D printing where a liquid binder is selectively deposited onto powder layers to build up a solid object. The key insight is that using branched-chain polymers — molecules with a tree-like structure rather than a simple straight chain — allows much higher concentrations of binder to be loaded into the inkjet fluid without clogging the printhead. Higher binder concentration translates directly into denser, stronger finished parts, whether those are metal components, ceramic structures, or pharmaceutical tablets. The approach works with common, well-understood polymer chemistries like PVP and PVA, meaning it can slot into existing binder jetting equipment without exotic materials.
What you could build
A drop-in binder fluid formulation for commercial binder jetting printers (e.g., Desktop Metal, ExOne/Ricoh, HP Metal Jet) that delivers higher green-part density without hardware changes; primary buyers would be metal and ceramic parts manufacturers and pharmaceutical tablet producers using continuous 3D printing lines.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense contractors and aerospace suppliers in Northern Virginia and the Hampton Roads corridor that use metal additive manufacturing for structural components would be natural licensees or development partners.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Christopher B. WILLIAMS, Emily M. WILTS, Timothy E. LONG, Da MA
- Granted
- July 15, 2025
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 12358215
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.