ABSTRACT
In commercial applications, this multi-trillion-dollar industry has the potential to unlock a lot of possibilities for public use and revolutionize manufacturing. However, the adoption of this disruptive technology still has a long way to go, which means the current technology has to provide better mechanical properties and cost efficiency than conventional methods. The present work examines the present state and future scenario of 3D printing techniques at the industrial level. This analysis aims to empower manufacturing industries, materials manufacturers, industrial end-users, and original equipment manufacturers with a rational and in-depth understanding of the enormous potential 3D printing can harness today and highlights the barriers several industries face in achieving that potential. The major roadblocks present in the value chain, including technological fields, ecosystems, and organizations, are also investigated. Best practices from several studies that help overcome the key challenges are also discussed. The study concluded that real opportunity drivers can be determined in novel 3D printing materials, digital process chains, new business models, and certified supply chains. The analysis indicates that collective steps in the direction of the industrialization of the entire additive manufacturing process chain are obligatory to promote the sustainable growth of the 3D printing industry. The chapter also considered seven significant actions required to achieve key enablers for shareholders in the 3D printing ecosystem to facilitate the process.
