What types of materials are commonly used in additive manufacturing?

The correct answer highlights the versatility of materials used in additive manufacturing. In this technology, a wide array of materials is utilized, which includes plastics, metals, ceramics, and composites. Each of these materials offers unique properties suited for different applications.

Plastics are commonly used due to their relative ease of processing, lightweight nature, and cost-effectiveness. Metals are leveraged for their strength and durability, making them ideal for applications requiring structural integrity, such as aerospace and automotive components. Ceramics are valued for their heat resistance and insulating properties, suitable for specialized applications in electronics and medical devices. Composites, which combine materials to enhance certain characteristics, provide customized performance for specific needs, allowing for innovations across various industries.

This diversity of materials allows for a broader range of applications and capabilities in additive manufacturing, unlike options that limit the materials to narrower categories, which do not reflect the full scope of the technology.