POLYMER POWDER, PROCESS FOR PRODUCTION OF AND USE OF THIS POWDER, AND RESULTANT SHAPED ARTICLES

摘要

A method for preparing polymer powder is provided to enable broader application of a layer-by-layer moldless process for producing three-dimensional molded articles showing high efficiency in terms of selection of materials and cost. A method for preparing polymer powder, suitable to be used in a layer-by-layer moldless process for producing three-dimensional molded articles, comprises the steps of: mixing a polymer or copolymer with at least one water soluble polymer polyol selected from the group consisting of polyethylene glycol and polyvinyl alcohol; dissolving the resultant mixture into water to form a dispersion; separating the polymer or copolymer particles from the dispersion; and washing and drying the polymer or copolymer particles, wherein each zone of powder layer is molten selectively by the introduction of electromagnetic energy.