3D printers use a variety of materials, including plastics, metals, and composites. The most common material for 3D printing is plastic, which comes in filaments or resins and is heated and shaped as it is laid down on top of the previous layer. Other materials used in 3D printing include:

• Metal: Metal material is 3D printed using a process called direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) and is used for a variety of applications such as aerospace parts.

• Concrete: Specialized printers exist to work with materials like concrete.

• Wood: Wood can be used in 3D printing to mimic materials like marble, ceramic, and wood.

• Carbon Fiber: When carbon fiber particles are added to standard 3D printing materials like ABS, PLA, or PETG, they increase the materials strength.

Different 3D printing materials and processes have their own strengths and weaknesses that define their suitability for different applications. The choice of material depends on the desired mechanical properties, functional characteristics, or looks of the final product.