A Comprehensive Review on Sustainability and Environmental Impact of Laser Powder Bed Fusion Additively Manufactured As-Built Ti-6Al-4V Parts

Abstract

Utilization of additive manufacturing, particularly Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF), has garnered considerable interest in recent times owing to its capacity to produce intricate geometries and functional components possessing enhanced mechanical characteristics. This review provides a thorough examination of the sustainability and environmental implications associated with the production of as-built Ti-6Al-4V parts using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) technology in additive manufacturing. This study aims to assess the sustainability dimensions of Laser Powder Bed Fusion technology, specifically in relation to material efficiency, energy usage, and waste production. Furthermore, this study evaluates the environmental ramifications associated with L-PBF Ti-6Al-4V components across their entire life cycle, encompassing activities such as extraction of raw materials, processing, utilization, and end-of-life management. This review critically examines the existing body of knowledge pertaining to the sustainability and environmental implications associated with as-built L-PBF Ti-6Al-4V components. The objective of this study is to determine the primary factors that impact sustainability, offer a comprehensive understanding of the environmental consequences associated with L-PBF technology, and delineate the existing constraints, difficulties, and prospects for future investigations in the domain of sustainable additive manufacturing.