Resin 3D printing

Some of the earliest working 3D printers, developed in the 1980s, were stereolithography (SLA) machines that processed liquid photopolymer resin instead of thermoplastic filament. And resin 3D printers, which use either a laser or a projector to cure photopolymer resin, are still an important 3D printing technology today, especially in areas like rapid prototyping, dentistry, and jewelry making.

The technology is useful for producing detailed features and smooth surface finishes, although parts are typically brittle and rarely used for demanding applications. Budget resin printers are available for under $500, with professional systems typically costing around $2,000–$10,000.