Restoration, Current Approaches Using the Additive Technologies: Issues of Transparency

Transparent polymers and additive technologies became important tools in restoration of the museum exhibits and creation of the corresponding functional models in the recent years. This is especially relevant in restoring the lost parts of scientific and technical objects, where transparency plays a key role in preserving authenticity and functionality of the exhibits. Among many 3D printing methods, fused deposition modeling (FDM) and photopolymerization with an LCD screen (LCD) technologies could be distinguished, and used to create parts from the transparent polymers. This paper examines research and comparative analysis of the printing modes for transparent materials used in the restoration. Objects of the study include the transparent gears made of PETG and eResin-PMMA, as well as mathematical simulation of the technological parameters influence on their transparency. Particular attention is paid to a possibility of optimizing the printing process to achieve the maximum optical transparency and restore functionality of the exhibits.