Within the research project "MultiMat3D" EKRA participated in the development of an innovative process in three-dimensional multi-material screen printing. Together with experts from the fields of ceramics and paste production as well as leading screen printing specialists, the limits of additive manufacturing were extended once more. The project partners Heraeus, Koenen, FhG IFAM, FhG IWM, VIA electronic and MSE cooperated under the heading "Innovations for tomorrow's production, services and work". As part of the ASYS Group, the HYCON printing specialists made their contribution. MultiMat3D is the successful continuation of the previously completed research project "Prima3D".

The research focused on the realization of a process with which complex internal structures and cavities can be produced. On the one hand, the challenge lay in so-called co-sintering, i.e. the joint thermal processing of different materials. On the other hand, the aim was to achieve the highest possible aspect ratio, which is considered complicated in process engineering: high structures with a small footprint. For the layer-by-layer material application the cooperation partners of MultiMat3D therefore relied on 3D screen printing, to which EKRA contributed the appropriate equipment and process experience. The screen printing process thus became a key function: the layer-by-layer application enabled aspect ratios greater than 80. The total height of the printed object is eighty times greater than its smallest lateral dimension.

Advantages:

• High flexibility of design
• A wide range of processable materials
• Combination of different materials within a print object
• Additive process: optimized material consumption compared to ablative processes

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