UCF Researcher Awarded DARPA Grant for Novel 3D Printing Technique

Dr. J. Manuel Olivero, an assistant professor in the University of Central Florida’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering, has been awarded a DARPA Young Faculty Award. This prestigious grant will fund his research into a novel 3D printing technique aimed at producing complex optical materials.

The research focuses on developing a method to create intricate, multi-material optical components that are currently difficult or impossible to manufacture using conventional techniques. The proposed 3D printing process is expected to allow for precise control over the structure and properties of the materials at a micro- and nanoscale level.

This capability could lead to the fabrication of advanced optical devices with enhanced functionalities. Potential applications include improved lenses, specialized sensors, and components for optical computing and communication systems. The DARPA award will provide Olivero with $500,000 over three years to advance this groundbreaking work.

Olivero's lab at UCF will utilize the funding to purchase new equipment and hire graduate students to assist in the development and testing of the new 3D printing technology. The ultimate goal is to demonstrate the feasibility of producing high-performance optical materials that can meet the demanding requirements of various technological sectors.