Scanning Electron Micrograph of Metal Powder

This scanning electron micrograph (image magnified 1,000 times) shows how NIST scientists can dramatically reveal the size, morphology, and chemistry of metal powders used in additive manufacturing (commonly referred to as 3-D printing). 

Such powders are used to make lightweight yet strong metal products—everything from jet engine turbines to artificial body parts. 

Since additive manufacturing builds objects one layer at a time, understanding the physical and chemical properties of the component materials is critical to ensuring that 3-D printed items are manufactured with consistent quality, reliability and cost-effectiveness.