Maine wins world record for largest 3D printed boat

In Maine, a composites research group at University of Maine has received three Guinness Book of World Record titles for its massive 3-D printer, which uses biobased thermoplastic ink.

The UMaine Advanced Structures and Composites Center was honored for the world’s largest prototype polymer 3D printer, largest solid 3D-printed object, and largest 3D-printed boat.

“I was delighted to join UMaine’s celebration unveiling the world’s largest 3D printer and largest 3D-printed object,” said Senator Susan Collins at the award ceremony. “The future of the [UMaine] Composites Center is bright, thanks to the excellent working relationship between UMaine, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and many other federal agencies, which will support next-generation, large-scale additive manufacturing with biobased thermoplastics.”

Maine has been actively investing in new technology to boost its forest products sector. The thermoplastic ink is made from cellulose sourced from Maine’s forests.