US Patent 7829000 - 3D freeform fabrication with nanocomposites

http://www.freepatentsonline.com/7829000.html

A variety of rapid prototyping devices exist which allow the use of CAD techniques to build 3D structures at low cost. These devices often employ powders and binder jetted in multiple layers but the resultant structure formed from the powders can be deficient in flexural strength. This patent from HP teaches a variety of nanocomposite powders which can improve the strength of the finished product. Claim 1 reads:

1. A method for creating a three-dimensional solid freeform fabrication object comprising:

spreading a reactive powder on a substrate, said reactive powder comprising at least one nanocomposite structurally reinforcing agent;

selectively dispensing a core binder in said reactive powder to form a core material; and

selectively dispensing a shell binder in said reactive powder to form a shell on said core material; and

polymerizing both binders with said reactive powder.