What is a disadvantage associated with vat photopolymerization?

In the context of vat photopolymerization, the characteristic that defines it is its method of using light to cure resin layer by layer. A notable disadvantage of this technique is that the materials, specifically the photopolymers used, can have properties that make them less robust compared to other additive manufacturing materials like metals or certain thermoplastics.

While vat photopolymerization can produce intricate and highly detailed parts, the mechanical properties of many photopolymer resins tend to be inferior in certain applications, particularly when strength, heat resistance, or durability are required. This can limit the range of applications for parts produced via this method, especially in industries where material performance is paramount.

Other concerns, such as cost and production speed, can also apply to different scenarios and materials. However, in terms of direct material characteristics, the relative weakness of the build materials compared to alternatives is a key disadvantage in many applications. This understanding highlights the importance of selecting the appropriate manufacturing method based on specific application requirements and material performance.