What AM method builds parts by using an adhesive, heat, or pressure to bond together thin layers of material?

The method that builds parts by using an adhesive, heat, or pressure to bond together thin layers of material is sheet lamination. This additive manufacturing process involves stacking layers of material, which are often sheets, and then bonding them together using adhesives, heat, or pressure. This technique is particularly effective for creating parts with a good surface finish and strength, as the bonding process fuses the layers together and can incorporate multiple materials.

Sheet lamination distinguishes itself from other additive manufacturing methods by its approach of layer attachment, which contrasts with techniques that involve melting, curing, or jetting materials. For example, binder jetting uses a binder to selectively bind powder particles together without the application of heat or pressure initially. Stereolithography relies on curing liquid resin with a light source, rather than bonding layers in a traditional manner. Material jetting involves the precise deposition of material droplets, which are then cured or solidified, but does not utilize a layering and bonding strategy that relies on heat or pressure in the same way.

By understanding these distinctions, it's clear why sheet lamination is the correct answer, as it specifically uses the mentioned methods of bonding to build parts layer by layer.