# 3D Printed Microfluid Separators for Solid/Liquid Suspensions
## 1 Introduction  
Additive manufacturing, recognized as a pivotal catalyst for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, stands at the forefront of transformative forces in industry, fundamentally reshaping established manufacturing and design paradigms [1; 2; 3]. Its profound impact is evidenced by its capacity to facilitate the fabrication of intricately detailed structures and objects deemed unattainable by conventional methods. This paradigm shift brings significant dynamism to the manufacturing landscape, impacting various sectors such as chemical engineering, aerospace, automotive, medical, and energy, emphasizing versatility and potential [1; 3; 4]. At the center of additive manufacturing is the detailed coordination between digital design and fabrication, managed through computer-aided design (CAD) software or the advanced features of 3D scanning technology [1; 5; 3]. In this digital realm, models are crafted to meet the specific requirements of diverse applications and manufacturing demands. The increasing availability of additive manufacturing software also represents the improving accessibility and user-friendly nature of these fabrication technologies [1; 2; 3]. Among additive manufacturing technologies, Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), also known as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), stands out for its versatility and widespread use [1; 2; 3]. FFF involves the layer-by-layer deposition of thermoplastic filaments, which are heated and extruded through a nozzle to create intricate three-dimensional structures. This technology offers a cost-effective and accessible way to produce prototypes, components, and complex geometries across various industries [1; 3; 5]. Its ability to work with a widerange of materials, most frequently ABS, PLA, and PETG, makes it suitable for rapid prototyping, tooling, and small-batch production. With advances in FFF technology, including improved precision, material options, and support structures, it continues to revolutionize manufacturing processes and expand access to additive manufacturing capabilities [1,3,4]. Another additive manufacturing technology, stereolithography (SLA), stands out for its precision and handling of photopolymer resin materials [1,6]. Through the controlled use of a laser beam, SLA transforms liquid resin into intricate three-dimensional structures, layer by layer [1,7]. Its exceptional accuracy makes it invaluable in industries where precision is crucial, offering unmatched reliability in the production of prototypes and components [1,8]. Solid-liquid separation, a fundamental process in various industries, is crucial for the purification of liquids, the recovery of valuable solids, and the minimization of environmental impact [9, 10, 11]. This process involves the separation of suspended solids from a liquid phase, typically accomplished through physical or mechanical means [9,10]. Common methods include filtration, sedimentation, and flotation, each tailored to the specific application based on factors such as particle size, shape, density, and desired separation efficiency [9,11]. As industries prioritize sustainability and resource conservation, the development of innovative solid-liquid separation technologies remains a focal point for optimizing processes, reducing waste, and enhancing overall efficiency [9,12]. Continuous separation processes play a pivotal role in modern industrial operations, offering advantages in terms of efficiency, productivity, and automation compared to batch processes. Unlike batch separation, where materials are processed in discrete batches, continuous separation involves an uninterrupted flow of feed material through the separation unit. This continuous flow enables steady-state operation, leading to more consistent product quality and higher throughput.