24 - Using 3D Printing to Optimize Research in X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy

Abstract

Research in the physical sciences often requires elaborate instruments with expensive equipment, and fixtures and mounting for these instruments can often be difficult to obtain. With great developments in the consumer market for digital manufacturing, 3D printing has the potential to be a vital resource in any physical science research space for creating these necessities. The benefits of 3D printing include the small form factor of the machines, low material costs, and the ability to allow rapid prototyping in designing essential parts to research. The goal of this project is to explore the applications and benefits of 3D printing and rapid prototyping in the research environment. This will be achieved by designing and testing apparatus to aid a current research project involving Monochromatic Micro-X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (MμXRF) to detect air pollutants via spider webs. 3D printing will be used to manufacture mounting for the spider web samples, X-ray lenses, and detector equipment. This poster describes the effects 3D printing technologies have on the MμXRF project, and evaluates the continuing benefits the technology could present to future physical science research projects.