Vat Photopolymerization
Vat Photopolymerization (VPP) is a resin-based additive process in which liquid photopolymers are selectively cured layer-by-layer using light, enabling very fine resolution and smooth surface finish. Techniques such as Stereolithography (SLA) and Digital Light Processing (DLP) are widely used for prototyping, dental applications, and functional parts requiring precision and detail.
At the DREAMS Lab, we have advanced VPP beyond conventional photopolymers by demonstrating the first stereolithographic printing of all-aromatic polyimides using photo-curable precursors. This breakthrough enabled access to high-temperature-resistant polymers with applications in aerospace and electronics. Our work highlights the combination of advanced resin chemistry and computational modeling to expand VPP into new material domains.