Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.

3D printing (also called additive manufacturing) uses many different materials depending on the specific technology. Here's an overview of the most common materials for the major 3D printing processes：

Most commonly used materials overall (2025)

a.PLA – still the #1 hobbyist material (biodegradable, easy, low odor)

b.PETG – the “best all-rounder” for functional parts

c.TPU – flexible filament for phone cases, gaskets, etc.

d.Resins (standard and engineering) – for miniatures, jewelry, dental

e.Nylon PA12 – dominant in professional polymer powder printing

f.316L Stainless Steel & Ti64 Titanium – most popular metals

Newer trends (2025):

a.Recycled and bio-based filaments (recycled PETG, PLA from corn starch)

b.High-performance thermoplastics like PEEK, PEKK, ULTEM (for aerospace/medical)

c.Ceramic-filled resins and technical ceramics (alumina, silica) via SLA or binder jetting

d.Conductive filaments and metal-replacement composites

In short: there is no single “material used in 3D printing” – it ranges from cheap plastics on $200 printers all the way to titanium and Inconel on million-dollar industrial machines. The choice depends entirely on the printer technology and the desired part properties.