Influence of scanning methods on the forming accuracy and flexural strength of Al ₂ O ₃ ceramic prepared by laser scanning stereolithography

Stereolithography is a prominent additive technology in ceramic additive manufacturing, which facilitates the creation of complex ceramic components. While various scanning methods have been investigated for other additive manufacturing techniques, their effects on stereolithography-prepared ceramic parts have not yet received attention. This study contrasts two scanning methods in stereolithography: interlayer alternating scanning (X-Y) and intralayer alternating scanning (XY). The results show that the layer thickness achieved via the XY method surpasses that of the X-Y method, albeit not by a factor of two. The disparity in cured thickness diminished as the scanning speed increased. The dimensional deviation in the X-Y method was less than that in the XY method in both length and width, with a parallel trend observed in height measurements. Furthermore, the choice of scanning method affected the flexural strength of the sintered body. Specimens created using the X-Y scanning method exhibited superior flexural strength.