Additive Manufacturing in Organic Chemistry: From Synthesis to Sustainable Process Design

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a process that creates a three-dimensional (3D) physical object from a digital design by building layers of material directly from a computer-aided design (CAD) file, allowing for precise and rapid production of parts or prototypes. AM is increasingly recognised as a sustainable production method due to its potential to reduce waste, energy consumption, and environmental impact. The versatility and efficiency of AM have made it an essential tool for rapid prototyping and developing custom parts and components with intricate designs that were previously difficult or impossible to produce. This review highlights the significant progress in utilising AM for the synthesis of organic compounds and the fabrication of organic devices. AM technologies are used in the synthesis of organic compounds, particularly through the use of 3D-printed catalysts, reactors and flow systems. Advances in AM have enabled this technology to be used to synthesise organic compounds and produce low-cost, customised organic equipment. This makes it possible to obtain sophisticated reactors, laboratory equipment or their individual parts, tailored to a specific chemical process in more sustainable way. AM has great potential for advancing green and sustainable chemical processes, with the ability to integrate multiple enabling technologies and facilitate safer and more efficient processes in a cost-effective manner. Overall, the integration of AM in organic synthesis has opened up new possibilities for innovative solutions in the field.