Additive manufacturing in agriculture

Agriculture, which is the foundation of human civilization, faces challenges that require innovative solutions to ensure sustainable and efficient production. This review examines the potential of additive technologies for modernizing the agro-industrial complex and, in particular, their role in the development of precision and digital agriculture. Particular attention is paid to the possibilities of 3D printing in digital design, fabrication of sensors and devices, and improving the environmental sustainability of agricultural systems. Additive technologies play a key role in the rapid prototyping of tools and equipment, enabling the rapid implementation of digital developments and innovations, complementing traditional farming methods. This review analyzes how these technologies can be used to solve specific problems in agriculture, particularly in the areas of precision farming, the customization of agricultural machinery and processes, and the modernization and repair of equipment. The use of 3D printing not only increases the efficiency of agricultural work, but also opens up new opportunities in agriculture due to the integration of the Internet of Things and the principles of precision farming. The novelty and scientific significance of this review lie in the systematic comparison of three scientific areas — additive technologies, chemistry/materials science, and agricultural practices — in a single interdisciplinary context. For the first time, additive manufacturing is considered not as an auxiliary technology, but as a cross-cutting tool for the digitalization of the agricultural sector, shaping new approaches to sustainable production, resource efficiency, and environmental safety. The practical importance of the analysis lies in demonstrating specific solutions and examples applicable in real farms: from local repair and customization of equipment to the creation of biodegradable sensors, water and soil monitoring devices, microfluidic analyzers, and robotic nodes. The review is intended for a wide audience, including chemists, materials scientists, agricultural engineers, researchers, and managers involved in sustainable development issues. The analysis highlights the important role of chemistry and materials science in designing solutions that expand the application of additive technologies in agriculture. <br> The bibliography includes 278 references.