Porous ceramics are used in various industrial applications based on their physical properties, including isolation, storage, and thermal barrier properties. However, traditional manufacturing environments require additional steps to control artificial pores and limit deformities, because they rely on limited molding methods. To overcome this drawback, many studies have recently focused on fabricating porous structures using additive manufacturing techniques. In particular, the binder jet technology enables high porosity and various types of designs, and avoids the limitations of existing manufacturing processes. In this study, we investigated process optimization for manufacturing porous ceramic filters using the binder jet technology. In binder jet technology, the flowability of the powder used as the base material is an important factor, as well as compatibility with the binder in the process and for the final print. Flow agents and secondary binders were used to optimize the flowability and compatibility of the powders. In addition, the effects of the amount of added glass frit, and changes in sintering temperature on the microstructure, porosity and mechanical properties of the final printed product were investigated.

Among the Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies, the Binder-Jetting printing technology is a method of spraying an adhesive on the surface of powder and laminate layer by layer. Recently, this technique has become a major issue in the production of large casting products such as ship-building, custom vehicles and so on. In this study, we performed research to make actual mold castings and increase mechanical property by using special sand and water-based binders. For use as a mold, it has a strength of more than 3MPa and permeability. Various experiments were carried out to obtain suitable them. The major process parameters were binder jetting volume, binder types, layer thickness and heat treatment condition. As a result of this study, the binder drop quantity was measured to be about 60 pico-liter, layer thickness was 100μm and the heat treatment condition was measured about 1,000℃ and compressive strength were measured to be more than 5MPa. The optimum condition of this experiment was established through actual casting of aluminum. The equipment used in this study was a Freeforms T400 model (SFS Co., Ltd.), and the printing area of 420 * 300 * 250mm and resolution of 600dpi can be realized.