Exploring circularity in ceramic 3D printing: Possibilities and implementation

• CerAM can be considered as means for CE integration into ceramics production chain. • Here, CerAM and 5Rs are aligned to guide through a more sustainable fabrication. • Recycling strategies are identified for partial material recovery at each stage. • CerAM’s CO 2 footprint depends on high energy consumption, mitigable with recycling. • Future work should assess LCAs to validate sustainability claims. • Then, new standards for the use of second life raw materials should be set. Nowadays, concepts such as recycling, reusing, and sustainability are gaining ground in a wide range of fields and sectors, including manufacturing. This paradigm shift from “produce-dispose” to “produce-reuse” is pushing manufacturers and producers to move from a linear economy to a circular one. This change in perspective seems more readily applicable to the world of additive manufacturing, as it offers the potential not only to reduce waste generation, but also to reintroduce discarded and recycled materials into the production chain. This implementation of a circular manufacturing approach could be applied to ceramic additive manufacturing. Is it a straightforward process to implement a circular solution into the production chain? Which are the implications for costs, energy requirements, emissions, and waste management? This open discussion aims to identify potential starting points and gaps for further evaluation of future application of circular economy concepts in the ceramic industry.