Research

Post-Processing methods to enhance the performance of AM:

The research aims to address challenges like reduced properties of the materials used in additive manufacturing compared to traditional technologies and issues like porosity and hygroscopicity. The study involves evaluating and characterizing mechanical behavior changes in different usage environments and developing post-processing methods, such as using functional coatings, to improve material reliability and stability. For example, experiments with polyamide matrix reinforced with short carbon fibers show significant reductions in hygroscopicity and increased mechanical properties.

Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM):

The research involves studying design methodologies focused on additive manufacturing technologies. This includes utilizing additive techniques for various applications, such as producing biomedical devices like dental aligners and creating optimized lattice structures for weight reduction and increased rigidity. The study also explores combining intelligent materials, like shape memory alloys (SMAs), with 3D printed mechanisms.

Additive Manufacturing of metals and ceramics using filament-based techniques:

This research involves the study and experimentation of hybrid Additive Manufacturing techniques, originally developed for polymers, for 3D printing of metallic and/or ceramic components. Material extrusion is the primary technique used, where filaments loaded with metal or ceramic particles are printed and subsequently subjected to thermal and/or chemical debinding and sintering treatments. The research focuses on optimizing printing and post-processing methods to enhance geometric features, dimensional accuracy, and mechanical properties of the printed components.

Review and Development of Methods for Lattice Structure Geometries:

The focus of this research is on designing and controlling the behavior of structures, particularly lattice structures, to achieve advanced performance in products and materials. This includes creating lightweight structures with both rigid and deformable parts using design methods based on criteria like Maxwell’s criterion. The study also explores sizing unit cells, their distribution within complex geometries, simulation, and additive manufacturing. New methods for creating density gradients within lattice structures are also being investigated to enhance their behavior and design possibilities.

To access the updated list of publications by Francesco Tamburrino, visit Scopus or Google Scholar.

Francesco Tamburrino is team member of the following research projects:

• EU H2020 PRIME-VR2. The Consortium is multi-disciplinary, encompassing expertise in Virtual Reality, Additive Manufacturing, 3D geometrical form generation, User Interface design, User-Centred design, electronics design, systems integration and rehabilitation.
• CHEOPS Very High-Power Building Blocks. The project aims to complement ongoing thruster-focused development activities with research and development on the actual future use of VHP Hall thruster systems: overall system architecture against various mission use cases, robust and cost-effective approach to qualification, manufacturability of critical components subject to wear, typically the discharge chamber and cathode and the ability to envisage alternative propellants and power sources.

Francesco Tamburrino is principal investigator of the following research project:

• Institutional Research Grants – Project no. PRA_2022_23_ “Optimization of extrusion-based additive manufacturing for metallic and ceramic parts”. The project aims to optimize Additive Manufacturing processes using Material Extrusion for metallic and ceramic components. This technique offers low investment costs and increased flexibility in material usage. The research focuses on enhancing final piece quality by optimizing printing and post-processing parameters. Aerospace engine components and orthodontic space maintainers will be studied as case examples, with potential cost reduction and improved outcomes. The project’s impact spans aerospace and orthodontic fields, exploring innovative engine architectures, reducing production times and costs, and providing societal benefits through electric propulsion systems. Additionally, orthodontic space maintainers aim to enhance aesthetics and acceptance among children, positively impacting their social life and future health.