From Polymer to Functional Ceramics: Recent Advances, Challenges, and Perspectives in 3D‐Printed Polymer‐Derived Ceramics

ABSTRACT

Polymer‐derived ceramics (PDCs) have emerged as a transformative alternative, enabling the formation of silicon‐based ceramic networks through the pyrolysis of preceramic polymers. This approach decouples shaping from densification, allowing the integration of additive manufacturing technologies such as stereolithography, digital light processing, binder jetting, inkjet printing, and direct ink writing to fabricate high‐resolution, near‐net‐shape components with enhanced design freedom. This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of recent advances in three‐dimensional (3D)‐printed PDCs, covering fundamental processing mechanisms, critical printing parameters, postprocessing strategies, and resulting material performance. The relationships between operating conditions, microstructural evolution, and mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties are systematically analyzed. Recent trends indicate rapid growth in this field, with applications predominantly concentrated in energy, followed by aerospace, and biomedical sectors, while environmental applications remain comparatively underexplored. Despite significant progress, key challenges persist, including volumetric shrinkage, defect formation, material brittleness, and high precursor costs, which collectively hinder large‐scale industrial adoption. To address these limitations, this review highlights emerging strategies involving sustainable precursor development, advanced process optimization, and the integration of computational design tools. By consolidating current knowledge and highlighting critical research gaps, this work provides a roadmap for advancing 3D‐printed PDCs toward scalable, high‐performance, and sustainable engineering applications.