Production of <scp>PA12</scp> Powder for Additive Manufacturing: Progress, Challenges, and Prospects

ABSTRACT The properties and functionalities of polyamide (PA) 12 printed products depend greatly on the appropriate selection of process routes, the compatibility‐cost relationship, and the fundamental properties of the polymer powder. This study reviews the existing PA12 powder preparation methods, challenges, and future prospects. High capital and operational costs, stringent safety protocols, potential material degradation, and environmental issues are some of the major challenges associated with PA12 production. However, the dissolution‐precipitation process seemed more viable than other techniques because of its ability to produce PA12 polymer powder with a narrow pore size distribution, improved mechanical strength, and enhanced production efficiency. Variables such as solvent type, concentration, dissolution temperature, and pressure effectively regulate the solubility and phase separation of the polymer powder. The thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) process enables easy incorporation and uniform distribution of reinforcements within a soluble polymer matrix. The utilization of green solvents for the dissolution of PA12 would provide viable alternatives to hazardous chemicals and mitigate environmental pollution, while an appropriate solvent recovery process would minimize production cost and improve powder productivity.