This practical book is aimed at companies that want to integrate thermoplastic-based 3D printing into their manufacturing processes and need to build up know-how in the selection of suitable plastics. It presents the thermoplastics relevant for additive manufacturing and their process-specific features as well as a wide range of applications. The book covers the following topics:- Functional principle and build-up strategy of thermoplastic-based additive manufacturing processes, in particular fused layer modeling (FLM) and selective laser sintering (SLS)- Classification and formulation of thermoplastic polymer materials- Mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties of thermoplastics that must be considered for use in 3D printing- Material, design, and process specifics of thermoplastics for successful processing - Support materials, multi-material processes, fiber-reinforced components- Bio-based or biodegradable thermoplastics, recycling of thermoplastics- Recommendations for occupational safety, environmental protection, and product safety.

Numerous practical examples showing recommended combinations of plastics and additive manufacturing methods make this book an indispensable guide for all those who use 3D printing and need sound knowledge of materials selection for this purpose.

Andreas Fischer is Professor of Industrial Design at the media Akademie – Hochschule Stuttgart (mAHS) and founder of startup companies focusing on additive manufacturing.

Dirk Achten is R&D Manager at Covestro Deutschland AG, a leading producer of high-technology plastics.

Dr.-Ing. Martin Launhardt is Managing Director of Launhardt GmbH. The focus of his activities is on industrial 3D printing and the correspondingly applied materials.