Nkuna, CNNomadolo, Elizabeth NMhike, MShongwe, MBOjijo, Vincent OMathew, Maya J2026-03-102026-03-102025-01978-0-12-803581-8https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-95486-0.00132-0http://hdl.handle.net/10204/14733The manufacturing of biobased biodegradable materials through additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing methods is a highly effective, sustainable, and eco-friendly technological advancement that is transforming the traditional polymer manufacturing processes and the extensive use of petroleum-based polymers. This chapter focuses on the different additive manufacturing technologies, along with a comprehensive analysis of inherent properties, processing parameters, and product specifications of various biodegradable polymer-based composites and blends. The fabrication of tailor-made structures for targeted application in the textile, food industry, construction, biomedical field, and other applications is discussed. The chapter highlights the primary challenges currently encountered when using AM as a production tool, as well as the emergence of 4D and 5D printing in AM. Finally, the chapter presents future perspectives, market analysis and provides a way to overcome the challenges associated with the 3D printing of biopolymers.AbstractenBiodegradable PolymersAdditive Manufacturing3D/4D/5D PrintingComposite MaterialsSustainable FabricationBook ChapterN/A