Precision and safety
The concurrent process of building and cooking is achieved using the 3D printer’s infrared heater made from laser-induced graphene (LIG). According to the researchers, this ultra-thin heating element provides precise temperature control, with food layers reaching 278.6°F (137°C) on the surface and maintaining at least 221°F (105°C) on the sides throughout the printing process.
The printer uses just 14 watts of power—a fraction of the 1,000-2,000 watts consumed by conventional ovens and air fryers. The team tested their new printer using a special starch-based cookie dough. As the printer extruded each new layer of dough, the infrared heater immediately cooked it.
The process also enables the food item to maintain its shape while destroying any harmful bacteria. As the team points out, immediate cooking prevents slumping and deformation when printed food items wait to be baked.