Understanding the 3D Printing Workflow: A Technical Primer for Forensic Science

ABSTRACT 3D printing, commonly used as a synonym for the technical term “additive manufacturing,” has become increasingly relevant in forensic contexts and presents new challenges. The fabrication of a 3D‐printed object extends well beyond the act of printing itself and should be understood as a connected workflow that begins in the digital sphere and culminates in a physical object. A clear understanding of this full process is essential, particularly in forensic contexts where 3D‐printed objects and setups are increasingly encountered but technical knowledge cannot always be assumed. This primer aims to provide a technical overview of that complete workflow, with a particular focus on Material Extrusion (MEX) systems. The general 3D printing workflow is structured into three main steps: (1) digital preparation , (2) 3D printing , and (3) finalization . For each step, the principal operations, as well as the relevant software, hardware, and materials, are described. Emphasis is placed on the fact that these steps are not isolated but interdependent, with later stages relying on the successful completion of earlier ones. By presenting the workflow in a structured and accessible manner, this primer provides foundational knowledge for readers with limited prior familiarity and establishes a common reference point for future research and more specialized work related to 3D printing. The primer also briefly highlights the forensic relevance of digital traces, manufacturing features, and material characteristics associated with the different stages, as well as the value of a multidisciplinary approach.