Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have developed a 3D printing system that uses off-the-shelf varnishes to finish objects with realistic, spatially varying gloss patterns. Working with colleagues from Università della Svizzera italiana, the Max Planck Institute for Informatics, and Princeton University, MIT researcher and mechanical engineer Michael Foshey hopes the printer will bring the concept of “Visually perfect” 3D printing closer to reality, where the difference between an object and its 3D printed replica is almost impossible to tell. The larger polymers in matte varnishes can clog up the thin channels in 3D printer nozzles. MIT’s method involves initially 3D printing an object with high gloss and support structures covering the areas where a matte finish is desired. Further details of the study can be found in the article titled “Towards spatially varying gloss reproduction for 3D printing”, which will be presented at next month’s SIGGRAPH Asia conference. Looking for a career in additive manufacturing? Visit 3D Printing Jobs for a selection of roles in the industry. Featured image shows Left: traditional 3D printing which doesn’t have varying reflectivity.

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