r/3Dprinting•
Chemical_Elf

Experiments in unconventional metal 3D printing

I've been working on a curiosity project for years: 3D printing metal at room temperature using Jet-based Electrochemical Deposition (JED).

It's an absolute nightmare to control due to the dendirites grow and the extreme current densities, but as you can see in this time-lapse, it works!
This is a 1-second time-lapse of a small copper spiral being constructed in an aqueous electrolyte solution (Copper Slphate+ Sulphuric acid).

Growth localization is controlled by the jet impact point. The metal "follows" the jet movement. I mounted the jet on an onl 3D printer and used its control to achieve the desired spiral shape.
The resulting copper is high purity (but for minor oxigen surface contamination...)

https://reddit.com/link/1p90vt5/video/tjo5qpwea14g1/player

What are your thoughts on the practical applications of JED over standard metal 3D printing techniques?

Posted Nov 28, 2025, 5:36 PM UTC

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