We are pleased to announce a new publication from NRT doctoral trainee AmirDanial Azimi, whose research focuses on advancing precision manufacturing for medical device applications.
📄 Publication: Optimization of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) Process for Small-Scale PEEK Medical Devices
📘 Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing, 2025
👥 Authors: AmirDanial Azimi, Leila Ladani, Jafar Razmi, David G. Lott, and Brent A. Chang
🔗 Read the full article: https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9120384
Summary:
This study addresses the longstanding challenge of fabricating small-scale medical components using PEEK, a high-performance, biocompatible polymer. Given PEEK’s demanding processing conditions, achieving accurate sub-millimeter features through fused deposition modeling (FDM) has been difficult.
Using a Taguchi L9 design of experiments, the research team evaluated the effects of nozzle temperature, layer height, printing speed, and extrusion width on dimensional accuracy and surface finish. The optimized parameters, validated through X-ray micro-computed tomography—significantly improved reproduction of fine features.
These findings offer new pathways for producing miniaturized dental, craniofacial, and orthopedic implants, supporting the broader goal of advancing precision medical manufacturing.
Congratulations to Amir on this important contribution to the field.