Expert Workshop on “Role of Additive Manufacturing Applications Towards Sustainability”
One Day Expert Workshop on “Role of Additive Manufacturing Applications Towards Sustainability” At Pondicherry University, Puducherry, Chennai on 08th August 2025
The Department of Green Energy Technology at Pondicherry University’s prestigious Madanjeet School of Green Energy Technologies, in strategic collaboration with the National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM), Hyderabad, and under the aegis of UNESCO Chair activities, successfully organized a comprehensive One-Day Expert Workshop titled “Role of Additive Manufacturing Applications Towards Sustainability.”The event brought together leading industry experts, academic researchers, and students to explore the transformative potential of 3D printing technologies in achieving environmental and economic sustainability goals.
The workshop commenced with a distinguished inaugural ceremony, featuring key dignitaries from both academia and industry. Dr. K. Karthik Selva Kumar, Assistant Professor and Workshop Coordinator, delivered the welcome address, setting the stage for a day of intensive learning and knowledge exchange. Dr. Rakesh Koppunur from NCAM, Hyderabad, provided the presidential address, emphasizing the center’s commitment to fostering innovation in additive manufacturing across India.
Vice Chancellor’s Vision for Sustainable Manufacturing
Vice Chancellor Prof. P. Prakesh Babu addressed the transformative potential of additive manufacturing technology, particularly emphasizing its groundbreaking applications in the medical sector. During the Inaugural address, the Vice Chancellor outlined how 3D printing technology has revolutionized organ transplantation procedures, citing notable international achievements, including successful ear reconstruction procedures. The technology has proven instrumental in creating replacement organs and tissues for patients suffering from liver, heart, and kidney failures. The Vice Chancellor stressed the critical importance of modernizing healthcare systems to keep pace with technological advancement. As we navigate an increasingly technology-driven world, it is imperative that we transition our scientific, technological, and medical systems from traditional methods to modern approaches, he stated. The remarks underscore the growing recognition of additive manufacturing as a cornerstone technology in contemporary medicine, offering new hope for patients requiring organ replacement and reconstructive procedures. This technological shift represents a fundamental evolution in how medical professionals approach complex surgical interventions and patient care. The Vice Chancellor’s comments reflect broader industry trends toward integrating cutting-edge manufacturing technologies into healthcare delivery, positioning 3D printing as a vital tool in addressing critical medical challenges and improving patient outcomes.
The workshop addressed comprehensive topics, including polymer and metal additive manufacturing, Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) methodologies, post-processing techniques, and extensive case studies from aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and energy sectors. Participants gained valuable insights into how additive manufacturing enables complex geometries, topology optimization, lightweight structures, and customized products while significantly reducing material waste, energy consumption, and environmental footprint compared to traditional subtractive manufacturing methods. The event successfully created an interactive platform for knowledge sharing, industry-academia partnerships, and positioned India for leadership in sustainable additive manufacturing solutions.
