ZBLAN glass 3D printing: the first steps

Fluoride glasses, particularly ZBLAN, exhibit exceptional optical properties, including low dispersion, high transmittance, and broad transparency in the mid-infrared spectrum. These characteristics make them highly attractive for applications such as mid-IR lasers, spectroscopy, and optical fiber technologies. In this study, we explore the feasibility of 3D printing ZBLAN glass using a fused filament fabrication (FFF) approach. The synthesis of high-purity ZBLAN glass rods was carried out, followed by an in-depth analysis of their thermal properties to determine optimal processing conditions. By adjusting extrusion temperatures and printing parameters, we successfully demonstrated the deposition of fluoride glass layers. The glassy state of the printed ZBLAN was verified, and a transmission of over 50% was achieved with the 3D-printed glass. This work represents a significant step toward additive manufacturing of advanced optical components, paving the way for new applications in infrared optics, fiber preforms, and customized glass microstructures.