Anisotropy in DLP-printed SiC ceramics: synergistic effects of crystalline phase and build orientation

To address the challenge of anisotropic distribution of properties of key structural components prepared by digital light processing (DLP) technology, this study prepared reaction-sintered silicon carbide (SiC) specimens and explored the combined effects of building orientation and crystalline phase on density, apparent porosity, and flexural strength. The results show that the porosity difference between α-SiC and β-SiC specimens with identical build directions is minimal (0.02 %), while a larger discrepancy (0.72 %) is observed between SiC specimens with similar crystalline phases but different build directions. Furthermore, α-SiC specimens exhibit a 158.49 MPa difference and β-SiC specimens show a 120.11 MPa variation between transverse and longitudinal build orientations. This study presents the synergistic effects of crystalline phase and build orientation on mechanical performance in 3D-printed components.