Scientists Just Found a Way to 3D Print One of the Hardest Metals on Earth

Why It Matters

The technique could slash material costs and waste in producing one of the hardest industrial metals, enabling more efficient manufacturing of high‑performance tools and expanding additive manufacturing to other hard‑metal applications.

Summary

Researchers at Hiroshima University and Mitsubishi Materials have demonstrated a laser‑based additive manufacturing process that can 3D‑print tungsten‑carbide‑cobalt (WC‑Co) cemented carbide with industrial‑grade hardness above 1400 HV. By using hot‑wire laser irradiation, the method softens rather than fully melts the material, allowing deposition only where needed and reducing raw‑material waste. The study identified two fabrication strategies, refined with a nickel‑alloy intermediate layer to eliminate defects and preserve hardness, paving the way for defect‑free, complex‑shaped cutting tools and other wear‑resistant components.