{"id":16934,"date":"2025-12-23T08:58:00","date_gmt":"2025-12-23T16:58:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/?p=16934"},"modified":"2026-04-20T08:51:04","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T15:51:04","slug":"what-materials-can-be-3d-printed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/what-materials-can-be-3d-printed\/","title":{"rendered":"What Can Be 3D Printed? A Complete Guide to Materials Used in 3D Printing [Update 2025]"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em>Choosing the right material for your 3D printed project can make or break a product. This article covers what objects and materials you can 3D print, key factors for material selection, and future trends in additive manufacturing.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/campaigns\/get-fusion-360\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"341\" src=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/blog-1024x341.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-85549\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/blog-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/blog-300x100.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/blog-768x256.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/blog.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/solutions\/3d-printing\">3D printing<\/a>, also known as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/solutions\/additive-manufacturing\">additive manufacturing<\/a> has transformed industries by enabling <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/rapid-prototyping\">rapid prototyping<\/a>, customization, and on-demand production. From aerospace components to medical implants, the technology offers tremendous flexibility. However, one question often arises: what can be 3D printed, and what materials can be 3D printed? The answer depends on the technology, application, and most importantly, the material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing the right material is very important because it determines strength, durability, cost, and functionality. In this comprehensive guide, we\u2019ll explore:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What objects can be 3D printed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What materials can be 3D printed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A detailed breakdown of materials used in 3D printing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Key factors for material selection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Future trends shaping additive manufacturing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-Automatic-Three-Dimensional-Pr-396383408-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"3d-printer-3d printing-plastic-material-\" class=\"wp-image-16940\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-Automatic-Three-Dimensional-Pr-396383408-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-Automatic-Three-Dimensional-Pr-396383408-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-Automatic-Three-Dimensional-Pr-396383408-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-Automatic-Three-Dimensional-Pr-396383408-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-Automatic-Three-Dimensional-Pr-396383408-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-Automatic-Three-Dimensional-Pr-396383408-284x160.jpg 284w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-Automatic-Three-Dimensional-Pr-396383408-382x216.jpg 382w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-can-be-3d-printed\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What can be 3D printed?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>3D printing is can be used across industries for almost anything, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Prototyping:<\/strong> Quickly iterate designs before mass production.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Functional parts:<\/strong> End-use components for automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Medical devices:<\/strong> Prosthetics, surgical guides, and dental models.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tools and fixtures:<\/strong> Jigs, molds, and assembly aids.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Art and design:<\/strong> Jewelry, sculptures, and custom d\u00e9cor.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-materials-can-be-3d-printed\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What materials can be 3D printed?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Materials for 3D printing fall into five main categories:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Plastics:<\/strong> Affordable, versatile, and widely used.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Metals:<\/strong> High strength for demanding applications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Composites:<\/strong> Enhanced properties for specialized needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ceramics:<\/strong> Heat-resistant and durable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Resins:<\/strong> Ideal for high-detail parts.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Each category supports different additive manufacturing processes, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/solutions\/fff-fdm-3d-printing-software\">FDM<\/a> (Fused Deposition Modeling):<\/strong> Common for plastics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/solutions\/stereolithography\">SLA<\/a> (Stereolithography):<\/strong> Uses liquid resins for precision.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/what-is-selective-laser-sintering-sls\/\">SLS<\/a> (Selective Laser Sintering):<\/strong> Works with powders like nylon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering):<\/strong> For metals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"materials-used-in-3d-printing-a-detailed-breakdown\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Materials used in 3D printing &#8211; A detailed breakdown<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"1-plastics\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Plastics<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Plastics are the most common 3D printing materials due to their affordability and ease of use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>PLA (Polylactic Acid):<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Biodegradable and eco-friendly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Great for prototypes and decorative items.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low heat resistance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene):<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Strong and impact-resistant.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suitable for functional parts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Requires heated bed to prevent warping.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol):<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Combines strength and flexibility.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excellent for mechanical components.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Good chemical resistance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nylon (Polyamide):<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Durable and wear-resistant.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ideal for gears, hinges, and industrial parts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Requires controlled environment for printing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-d-Printing-Additive-Technolo-361393102-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"3d-printing-materials-metal-additive-manufacturing\" class=\"wp-image-16935\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-d-Printing-Additive-Technolo-361393102-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-d-Printing-Additive-Technolo-361393102-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-d-Printing-Additive-Technolo-361393102-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-d-Printing-Additive-Technolo-361393102-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-d-Printing-Additive-Technolo-361393102-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-d-Printing-Additive-Technolo-361393102-284x160.jpg 284w, https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/bigstock-d-Printing-Additive-Technolo-361393102-382x216.jpg 382w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"2-metals\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Metals<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Metal 3D printing enables production of high-strength, lightweight components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Aluminum:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lightweight and corrosion-resistant.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Common in aerospace and automotive.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Titanium:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Exceptional strength-to-weight ratio.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Biocompatible for medical implants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stainless steel:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tough and versatile.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Used in tooling and industrial applications.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Metal printing typically uses powder-bed fusion processes like DMLS or EBM (Electron Beam Melting).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"3-composites\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Composites<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Composites combine polymers with reinforcing fibers for superior performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Carbon fiber reinforced polymers:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>High stiffness and strength.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Perfect for lightweight structural parts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Glass-filled nylon:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Improved rigidity and dimensional stability.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Used in automotive and industrial components.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"4-ceramics\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Ceramics<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ceramic 3D printing is ideal for high-temperature and wear-resistant applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Alumina and Zirconia:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Excellent thermal resistance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Common in electronics and medical devices.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Ceramic parts often require post-processing like sintering for full strength.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"5-resins\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Resins<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Resins are used in SLA and DLP printers for high-detail, smooth-surface parts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Standard resins:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Great for visual models and prototypes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tough resins:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Impact-resistant for functional prototypes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flexible resins:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rubber-like properties for seals and gaskets.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dental resins:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Biocompatible for orthodontic models and surgical guides.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"factors-to-consider-when-choosing-materials\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Factors to consider when choosing materials<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Selecting the right material depends on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mechanical properties:<\/strong> Strength, flexibility, and durability.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Thermal resistance:<\/strong> For high-temperature environments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cost:<\/strong> Balancing performance and budget.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Surface finish:<\/strong> Smoothness for aesthetic or functional needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sustainability:<\/strong> Recyclable or bio-based options.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"future-trends-in-3d-printing-materials\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Future trends in 3D printing materials<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The future of additive manufacturing is exciting, with innovations such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bio-based polymers:<\/strong> Eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Smart materials:<\/strong> Shape-memory alloys and conductive polymers for electronics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Advanced composites:<\/strong> Ultra-light yet strong materials for aerospace and automotive.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Metal matrix composites:<\/strong> Combining metals with ceramics for extreme performance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding what can be 3D printed and the materials used in 3D printing is key to unlocking the full potential of additive manufacturing. Whether you\u2019re designing prototypes or producing end-use parts, material selection matters. Tools like Autodesk Fusion  to simulate and optimize your designs for the right material choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"autodesk-fusion-for-3d-printing\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Autodesk Fusion for 3D printing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/overview\">Fusion<\/a> is more than a CAD tool\u2014it\u2019s an integrated product development solution that combines design, engineering, and manufacturing in one environment, making it ideal for 3D printing workflows. With features like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/solutions\/generative-design-ai-software\">generative design<\/a>, you can create optimized, lightweight geometries tailored for additive manufacturing. Its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/fusion-for-design\">simulation tools<\/a> allow you to validate strength, thermal performance, and material behavior before printing, reducing costly errors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fusion also includes manufacturing-aware design capabilities, helping you plan support structures, optimize part orientation, and ensure printability. Plus, its cloud-based collaboration allows teams to share files, track versions, and work seamlessly across locations. By unifying design and production, Fusion accelerates innovation and ensures your 3D-printed parts meet performance and quality standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"3d-printing-materials-frequently-asked-questions-faq\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">3D printing materials frequently asked questions (FAQ)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776200077597\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the main categories of materials used in 3D printing?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The five main categories of 3D printing materials are plastics, metals, composites, ceramics, and resins. Each category supports different additive manufacturing processes and is suited to different applications, which can be explored and evaluated in design\u2011to\u2011manufacturing platforms like <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/overview\">Autoesk Fusion<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776200118023\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the most common material used in 3D printing?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Plastics are the most common 3D printing materials due to their affordability and ease of use. Popular options include PLA, ABS, PETG, and nylon, each offering different properties suited to various applications and commonly supported in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/overview\">Autodesk Fusion<\/a><\/strong> workflows.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776200159126\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Which 3D printing material is best for high-strength applications?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Metals such as titanium, aluminum, and stainless steel are ideal for high\u2011strength applications. These materials are typically printed using powder\u2011bed fusion processes like DMLS or EBM, which can be planned and validated within <a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/overview\">Autodesk Fusion<\/a>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776200239813\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What materials are used for high-detail 3D printed parts?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Resins are used in SLA and DLP printers to produce high\u2011detail, smooth\u2011surface parts. They come in standard, tough, flexible, and dental varieties to suit a range of functional and visual needs, often requiring precise design control available in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/overview\">Autodesk Fusion<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776200274736\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What factors should I consider when choosing a 3D printing material?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Key factors include mechanical properties like strength and flexibility, thermal resistance, cost, surface finish requirements, and sustainability. Balancing these considerations is easier when using tools like <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/overview\">Autodesk Fusion<\/a><\/strong>, which help assess material choices early in the design process.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776200304098\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What 3D printing process is used for metal parts?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Metal 3D printing typically uses powder\u2011bed fusion processes such as DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering) or EBM (Electron Beam Melting). These processes deliver high\u2011strength, lightweight components and are often supported by end\u2011to\u2011end workflows in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/overview\">Autodesk Fusion<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776200338255\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Are there eco-friendly materials available for 3D printing?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, PLA is a biodegradable and eco\u2011friendly plastic option widely used for prototypes and decorative items. Emerging bio\u2011based polymers are also being developed as sustainable alternatives, which designers can evaluate and test using <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/overview\">Autodesk Fusion<\/a><\/strong> before production.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776200371905\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are composites in 3D printing?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Composites combine polymers with reinforcing fibers, such as carbon fiber or glass\u2011filled nylon, to achieve superior strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability. These materials are commonly used in automotive and industrial applications and can be designed and prepared for manufacturing in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/overview\">Autodesk Fusion.<\/a><\/strong><\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Using the right material for your 3D printed project can make or break the final result. Fortunately, there are many options to choose from, whether it be plastic, metal, or even polymer.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4033,"featured_media":16935,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[476,479],"tags":[73,254,143],"coauthors":[597],"class_list":["post-16934","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tutorials","category-product-design-engineering","tag-3d-printing","tag-additive-manufacturing","tag-manufacturing","dhig-theme--light"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What Can Be 3D Printed? A Complete Guide to Materials Used in 3D Printing [Update 2025] - Fusion Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Using the right material for your 3D printed project can make or break a product. This article will cover what materials can be 3D printed.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/what-materials-can-be-3d-printed\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What Can Be 3D Printed? A Complete Guide to Materials Used in 3D Printing [Update 2025] - Fusion Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Using the right material for your 3D printed project can make or break a product. 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Balancing these considerations is easier when using tools like <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/overview\">Autodesk Fusion<\/a><\/strong>, which help assess material choices early in the design process.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/what-materials-can-be-3d-printed\/#faq-question-1776200304098","position":6,"url":"https:\/\/www.autodesk.com\/products\/fusion-360\/blog\/what-materials-can-be-3d-printed\/#faq-question-1776200304098","name":"What 3D printing process is used for metal parts?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Metal 3D printing typically uses powder\u2011bed fusion processes such as DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering) or EBM (Electron Beam Melting). 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