The recent explosion in the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT has sparked excitement for AI’s possibilities in both everyday and industrial settings. Regarding industrial settings, it is expected that AI models and algorithms could be used to improve many aspects of manufacturing, including material composition, equipment operation, and processing parameters.

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a fabrication process that could greatly benefit from the use of AI tools. AM involves the deposition of materials layer by layer to form parts with (typically) complex geometries. This process involves many variables: from the material being deposited (including constituent powders, binders, dispersants, and viscosity modifiers) to the processing parameters (including nozzle characteristics, line sizes, dispensing rates/pressures, and printing patterns). This complexity offers an attractive arena for AI-driven research and development.