The role of granular matter in additive manufacturing

Abstract: Additive manufacturing, particularly in granular systems, has revolutionized industries such as aerospace, medical engineering, and automotive manufacturing by enabling complex, customized designs. A critical aspect of additive manufacturing is powder handling, which involves challenges related to deposition, packing density, and safety. Numerical simulations, including the discrete element method and smoothed particle hydrodynamics, play an essential role in optimizing these processes. Inspired by the DEM9 conference, where several authors were invited to contribute, this editorial highlights ongoing granular research on additive manufacturing. Previously not extensively covered in Granular Matter, this topical collection showcases novel work to establish additive manufacturing more prominently within the journal. Through contributions on powder spreading, material structure, and innovative computational models, this issue enhances the understanding of additive manufacturing processes and their industrial applications. Graphic abstract: (Figure presented.)