Jetting Technology in Additive Manufacturing: 2025 Market Dynamics, Breakthroughs, and the Road to 2030. Explore How Inkjet and Material Jetting Are Shaping the Next Era of 3D Printing.
- Executive Summary: Jetting Technology’s Role in Additive Manufacturing
- Market Size and Growth Forecast (2025–2030): CAGR, Revenue, and Key Drivers
- Technology Overview: Inkjet, Binder Jetting, and Material Jetting Explained
- Competitive Landscape: Leading Players and Emerging Innovators
- Key Applications: Aerospace, Medical, Automotive, and Beyond
- Materials Evolution: Polymers, Metals, Ceramics, and Composites
- Recent Breakthroughs and Patent Trends (2023–2025)
- Challenges: Technical Barriers, Cost, and Scalability
- Sustainability and Regulatory Developments
- Future Outlook: Opportunities, Risks, and Strategic Recommendations
- Sources & References
Executive Summary: Jetting Technology’s Role in Additive Manufacturing
Jetting technology has rapidly emerged as a pivotal force in the evolution of additive manufacturing (AM), offering unique advantages in precision, material versatility, and scalability. As of 2025, jetting-based AM processes—such as material jetting, binder jetting, and nanoparticle jetting—are being increasingly adopted across industries including aerospace, automotive, dental, and consumer goods. The technology’s ability to deposit droplets of build material or binder with micron-level accuracy enables the production of highly detailed, multi-material, and full-color parts, setting it apart from other AM methods.
Key industry players are driving innovation and commercialization in this space. Stratasys, a global leader in polymer 3D printing, continues to expand its PolyJet platform, which is renowned for its multi-material and multi-color capabilities. The company’s recent advancements focus on improving print speed, expanding material portfolios, and enhancing software integration for design-to-print workflows. Similarly, 3D Systems has advanced its MultiJet Printing (MJP) technology, targeting applications in healthcare and industrial prototyping, with a focus on high-resolution and biocompatible materials.
In the metal AM segment, Desktop Metal and ExOne (now part of Desktop Metal) are at the forefront of binder jetting technology. Their systems are being deployed for both prototyping and end-use part production, with a particular emphasis on cost-effective, high-throughput manufacturing. Binder jetting’s ability to process a wide range of metals and ceramics is attracting significant attention from sectors seeking to scale AM beyond traditional prototyping.
Material innovation is another critical driver. Companies like voxeljet are expanding the range of printable materials, including advanced ceramics and sand for casting applications. The development of new photopolymers, metals, and composite materials is expected to further broaden jetting’s applicability in the coming years.
Looking ahead, the outlook for jetting technology in additive manufacturing is robust. Industry analysts and manufacturers anticipate continued growth in adoption, driven by ongoing improvements in print speed, resolution, and material diversity. The integration of AI-driven process control and real-time monitoring is expected to enhance reliability and repeatability, addressing key barriers to mass production. As jetting systems become more accessible and versatile, their role in digital manufacturing ecosystems is set to expand, supporting the shift toward distributed, on-demand production models.
Market Size and Growth Forecast (2025–2030): CAGR, Revenue, and Key Drivers
Jetting technology, encompassing material jetting (MJ), binder jetting (BJ), and nanoparticle jetting (NPJ), is a rapidly evolving segment within the additive manufacturing (AM) industry. As of 2025, the global market for jetting-based AM is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing adoption in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, dental, and consumer products. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for jetting technology in AM is projected to range between 18% and 24% through 2030, outpacing several other AM modalities due to its unique capabilities in multi-material printing, high resolution, and scalability.
Key industry players are expanding their portfolios and production capacities to meet rising demand. Stratasys Ltd., a pioneer in PolyJet technology, continues to innovate with new materials and higher throughput systems, targeting both prototyping and end-use part production. 3D Systems Corporation is also advancing its MultiJet Printing (MJP) platforms, focusing on applications in healthcare and precision engineering. In the binder jetting space, ExOne Company (now part of Desktop Metal) and HP Inc. are scaling up metal and sand binder jetting solutions for industrial-scale manufacturing, with HP’s Metal Jet platform gaining traction in automotive and tooling applications.
Revenue from jetting-based AM systems, materials, and services is expected to surpass several billion USD by 2030, with North America and Europe leading in adoption, followed by rapid growth in Asia-Pacific. The expansion is fueled by the technology’s ability to deliver complex geometries, fine feature resolution, and multi-material integration, which are increasingly demanded in high-value sectors. For example, Stratasys Ltd. reports growing use of PolyJet for dental aligners and medical models, while 3D Systems Corporation highlights the role of MJP in custom healthcare solutions.
Key drivers for market growth include ongoing material innovations (such as photopolymers, metals, and ceramics), improvements in print speed and reliability, and the push for digital manufacturing workflows. Strategic partnerships between AM technology providers and end-users are accelerating the industrialization of jetting processes. Looking ahead, the next few years will likely see further consolidation among technology providers, increased investment in R&D, and broader adoption of jetting AM for both prototyping and serial production, solidifying its position as a core technology in the additive manufacturing landscape.
Technology Overview: Inkjet, Binder Jetting, and Material Jetting Explained
Jetting technology has emerged as a pivotal approach in additive manufacturing (AM), offering high-resolution, multi-material, and scalable solutions for both prototyping and end-use parts. As of 2025, three primary jetting-based AM processes dominate the landscape: inkjet, binder jetting, and material jetting. Each leverages the precise deposition of droplets to build objects layer by layer, but they differ in materials, mechanisms, and applications.
Inkjet Printing in AM typically refers to the use of printheads to deposit functional inks—such as conductive, biological, or photopolymer materials—onto substrates. This technology, originally developed for 2D printing, has been adapted for 3D applications, enabling the fabrication of electronics, sensors, and microfluidic devices. Companies like HP Inc. have advanced inkjet-based 3D printing with their Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) platform, which uses a combination of fusing and detailing agents jetted onto a powder bed, followed by infrared energy to fuse the material. This approach allows for rapid production of complex polymer parts with fine feature resolution and is increasingly adopted in automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods sectors.
Binder Jetting is characterized by the selective deposition of a liquid binding agent onto a powder bed, typically composed of metals, ceramics, or sand. The process is repeated layer by layer, and the resulting “green” part is subsequently cured and sintered. ExOne (now part of Desktop Metal) and voxeljet AG are leading providers of binder jetting systems, with installations in industries ranging from aerospace to foundry tooling. Binder jetting is notable for its scalability and ability to process a wide range of materials, including stainless steel, Inconel, and even sand for casting molds. In 2025, the technology is seeing increased adoption for mass production of metal parts, with ongoing improvements in part density, surface finish, and post-processing automation.
Material Jetting involves the direct deposition of build materials—typically photopolymers—through inkjet printheads, followed by immediate curing with UV light. This process enables the creation of highly detailed, multi-material, and multi-color parts in a single build. Stratasys Ltd. is a key innovator in this space, with its PolyJet technology widely used for prototyping, dental, and medical models. Material jetting is valued for its precision and ability to simulate overmolding, soft-touch surfaces, and complex assemblies.
Looking ahead, jetting technologies are expected to benefit from advances in printhead design, material formulations, and process automation. The integration of machine learning for process control and the expansion of material portfolios—especially metals and ceramics—are likely to drive broader adoption in both prototyping and serial production. As leading manufacturers continue to invest in R&D, jetting-based AM is poised to play a central role in the digital transformation of manufacturing over the next several years.
Competitive Landscape: Leading Players and Emerging Innovators
The competitive landscape for jetting technology in additive manufacturing (AM) is rapidly evolving as established leaders and emerging innovators vie for market share in 2025 and beyond. Jetting-based AM, which includes material jetting (MJ), binder jetting (BJ), and nanoparticle jetting (NPJ), is gaining traction due to its ability to deliver high-resolution, multi-material, and full-color parts. The sector is characterized by a mix of large multinational corporations and agile startups, each contributing to technological advancements and market expansion.
Among the established players, Stratasys remains a dominant force, particularly with its PolyJet technology. In 2024, Stratasys introduced new materials and software upgrades, enhancing the precision and versatility of its J-series printers for applications in healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods. The company’s continued investment in R&D and strategic partnerships positions it as a key innovator in the material jetting segment.
Another major player, 3D Systems, leverages its MultiJet Printing (MJP) platform to serve industries requiring fine detail and smooth surface finishes, such as dental and jewelry. In 2025, 3D Systems is expected to expand its material portfolio and automation capabilities, responding to growing demand for production-scale AM solutions.
In the binder jetting domain, ExOne (now part of Desktop Metal) continues to push the boundaries of metal and sand 3D printing. The company’s focus on industrial-scale systems and process automation has led to increased adoption in aerospace, automotive, and tooling sectors. Desktop Metal’s integration of ExOne’s technology is anticipated to accelerate the commercialization of binder jetting for end-use metal parts.
Emerging innovators are also shaping the competitive landscape. voxeljet is recognized for its large-format binder jetting systems, targeting foundry and architectural applications. The company’s VX series printers, capable of producing meter-scale parts, are being adopted for both prototyping and short-run production.
A notable disruptor is XJet, which has commercialized nanoparticle jetting for ceramics and metals. XJet’s Carmel systems, using a unique liquid dispersion process, are gaining attention for their ability to produce highly detailed, complex geometries in technical ceramics and stainless steel. The company’s expansion into new materials and global markets is expected to intensify competition in high-value AM applications.
Looking ahead, the jetting technology sector is poised for further consolidation and innovation. Key trends include the integration of AI-driven process control, expansion of material choices, and the scaling of jetting systems for true digital manufacturing. As both established and emerging players invest in R&D and strategic collaborations, the next few years will likely see accelerated adoption of jetting-based AM across diverse industries.
Key Applications: Aerospace, Medical, Automotive, and Beyond
Jetting technology, encompassing material jetting (MJ), binder jetting (BJ), and nanoparticle jetting (NPJ), is rapidly advancing as a core additive manufacturing (AM) method across high-value sectors. As of 2025, its precision, scalability, and material versatility are driving adoption in aerospace, medical, automotive, and other industries, with leading manufacturers and end-users reporting significant progress.
In aerospace, jetting-based AM is increasingly used for lightweight, complex components and tooling. The technology’s ability to produce intricate geometries with minimal post-processing is particularly valued for prototyping and short-run production. Companies such as Stratasys and voxeljet are prominent, with Stratasys’ PolyJet systems enabling multi-material, high-resolution parts for cabin interiors and functional prototypes. Voxeljet’s binder jetting platforms are being leveraged for large-format sand casting molds and cores, supporting rapid iteration and reduced lead times for aerospace foundries.
In the medical sector, jetting technology is enabling the production of patient-specific devices, surgical guides, and anatomical models. The high accuracy and biocompatible material options offered by PolyJet and similar processes are critical for these applications. Stratasys has partnered with hospitals and medical device firms to deliver custom implants and pre-surgical planning models, while 3D Systems offers binder jetting solutions for dental prosthetics and surgical tools. The ability to print multi-material, full-color models is enhancing both clinical outcomes and medical education.
Automotive manufacturers are adopting jetting AM for prototyping, tooling, and increasingly, end-use parts. The speed and flexibility of jetting processes support rapid design iteration and the production of complex assemblies. voxeljet’s binder jetting systems are used for sand molds in metal casting, streamlining the development of engine components and lightweight structures. Stratasys’ PolyJet technology is widely used for interior components, lighting prototypes, and ergonomic studies, with automotive OEMs and suppliers integrating these systems into their digital manufacturing workflows.
Beyond these core sectors, jetting technology is expanding into consumer goods, electronics, and industrial tooling. The introduction of new materials—such as ceramics, metals, and advanced polymers—by companies like XJet (noted for its NPJ technology) is broadening the application landscape. XJet’s systems are being adopted for high-precision ceramic and metal parts in electronics and dental applications, with ongoing R&D expected to further enhance material properties and throughput.
Looking ahead, the outlook for jetting technology in additive manufacturing is robust. Continued improvements in printhead technology, material diversity, and process automation are expected to drive wider adoption and new applications through 2025 and beyond. Industry leaders are investing in scaling up production capabilities and qualifying jetting-based parts for critical end-use applications, signaling a maturing technology poised for broader industrial impact.
Materials Evolution: Polymers, Metals, Ceramics, and Composites
Jetting technology, encompassing material jetting (MJ), binder jetting (BJ), and nanoparticle jetting (NPJ), is rapidly advancing as a versatile additive manufacturing (AM) approach for polymers, metals, ceramics, and composites. As of 2025, the sector is witnessing significant developments in printhead design, material formulations, and process control, enabling broader adoption across industries.
In the polymer domain, material jetting—exemplified by PolyJet and MultiJet Printing—remains a leading technology for high-resolution, multi-material prototyping and functional parts. Stratasys, a pioneer in PolyJet, continues to expand its material portfolio, introducing photopolymers with enhanced mechanical, thermal, and biocompatible properties. The company’s recent releases focus on engineering-grade resins and digital materials that allow for the simulation of elastomers, transparent components, and medical models. Similarly, 3D Systems is advancing MultiJet Printing with new wax and plastic materials tailored for investment casting and dental applications.
Binder jetting is gaining momentum for metals and ceramics, driven by its scalability and cost-effectiveness. ExOne (now part of Desktop Metal) and voxeljet are at the forefront, offering systems capable of processing stainless steel, Inconel, copper, and advanced ceramics. In 2025, these companies are focusing on process automation, improved powder handling, and post-processing integration to address industrial-scale production needs. Notably, Desktop Metal is commercializing binder jetting for high-throughput manufacturing of metal parts, with a particular emphasis on automotive and consumer electronics sectors.
Ceramic jetting is also evolving, with companies like XJet leveraging nanoparticle jetting to produce dense, high-precision ceramic and metal components. XJet’s technology enables the deposition of ultra-fine droplets containing ceramic or metal nanoparticles, followed by sintering, resulting in parts with intricate geometries and excellent surface finish. The company is expanding its material range to include alumina, zirconia, and stainless steel, targeting applications in medical devices, electronics, and aerospace.
Composite jetting is an emerging frontier, with research and early commercialization focusing on multi-material and functionally graded structures. Companies are developing jettable inks and suspensions containing reinforcing fibers, nanoparticles, or hybrid fillers to impart tailored mechanical, thermal, or electrical properties. While commercial adoption is nascent, ongoing collaborations between equipment manufacturers and material suppliers are expected to yield new composite jetting solutions within the next few years.
Looking ahead, the outlook for jetting technology in additive manufacturing is robust. Key trends include the integration of machine learning for process optimization, expansion of qualified material libraries, and the development of closed-loop quality control systems. As jetting platforms become more reliable and versatile, their role in end-use part production—beyond prototyping—will continue to grow, particularly in sectors demanding high customization, fine detail, and multi-material capabilities.
Recent Breakthroughs and Patent Trends (2023–2025)
Jetting technology, encompassing material jetting (MJ), binder jetting (BJ), and nanoparticle jetting (NPJ), has experienced significant breakthroughs and patent activity between 2023 and 2025. This period has seen a convergence of advancements in printhead design, material formulations, and process control, driving the technology’s adoption in both prototyping and end-use part production.
A notable trend is the refinement of multi-material and multi-color jetting systems. Stratasys Ltd., a pioneer in PolyJet technology, has introduced new printheads capable of depositing up to eight materials simultaneously, enabling the fabrication of complex, functionally graded parts with tailored mechanical and aesthetic properties. Their recent patent filings focus on improved droplet control and in-situ mixing, which enhance resolution and material interface quality.
In binder jetting, ExOne Company (now part of Desktop Metal) and Desktop Metal, Inc. have accelerated the commercialization of high-speed, production-scale systems. Recent patents emphasize innovations in binder chemistry and powder handling, addressing challenges in part density and post-processing. ExOne’s 2024 launch of a new industrial platform, featuring real-time process monitoring and adaptive jetting algorithms, has set a benchmark for throughput and reliability in metal and sand part production.
Nanoparticle jetting, led by XJet Ltd., has seen a surge in patent activity around the deposition of ceramic and metal nanoparticles. XJet’s Carmel systems, which utilize a unique liquid suspension jetting process, have been the subject of several recent patents covering nozzle design and particle dispersion techniques. These advances have enabled the production of intricate, high-density ceramic and metal components with minimal post-processing.
The sector has also witnessed increased collaboration between jetting technology developers and material suppliers. HP Inc., with its Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) platform, has expanded its open materials ecosystem, resulting in new patents related to powder-bed fusion and jetting synergy. HP’s focus on process automation and AI-driven quality control is reflected in its 2024 patent portfolio, which includes machine learning algorithms for defect detection and adaptive process parameters.
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the patent landscape is expected to be shaped by further integration of AI, real-time monitoring, and sustainable material solutions. The ongoing shift toward production-grade jetting systems, supported by robust intellectual property, positions jetting technology as a key enabler for digital manufacturing across industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and automotive.
Challenges: Technical Barriers, Cost, and Scalability
Jetting technology, encompassing material jetting (MJ), binder jetting (BJ), and nanoparticle jetting (NPJ), has emerged as a versatile approach in additive manufacturing (AM). However, as the sector enters 2025, several technical, economic, and scalability challenges continue to shape its trajectory.
A primary technical barrier is the limited range of printable materials. While jetting excels with photopolymers, waxes, and certain metals, the technology struggles with high-performance polymers and ceramics due to viscosity constraints and printhead compatibility. For example, Stratasys, a leader in material jetting, has expanded its photopolymer portfolio, but the mechanical properties of these materials still lag behind those of traditional engineering plastics. Similarly, voxeljet and ExOne (now part of Desktop Metal) have advanced binder jetting for metals and sand, yet the post-processing requirements—such as sintering and infiltration—add complexity and limit throughput.
Printhead reliability and maintenance remain persistent issues. Jetting systems are prone to clogging, especially when using particle-laden or high-viscosity inks. This leads to downtime and increased operational costs. Companies like HP, which offers Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) technology, have invested heavily in printhead design and automated maintenance routines, but even these systems require regular intervention to maintain consistent quality.
Cost is another significant barrier. The capital investment for industrial jetting systems is substantial, with machines from Stratasys and HP often exceeding several hundred thousand dollars. Material costs are also high, particularly for proprietary photopolymers and metal powders. While some companies are working to broaden material compatibility and reduce costs, the price per part remains a challenge for large-scale adoption outside of prototyping and high-value, low-volume applications.
Scalability is closely tied to both technical and economic factors. Jetting technologies are well-suited for producing highly detailed, multi-material, or color parts, but scaling up to mass production is hindered by relatively slow build rates and the need for extensive post-processing. voxeljet has developed large-format binder jetting systems for sand casting molds, demonstrating potential for industrial-scale output, yet the transition to high-throughput manufacturing for end-use parts is still in its early stages.
Looking ahead, the outlook for jetting technology in additive manufacturing is cautiously optimistic. Ongoing R&D by industry leaders aims to expand material options, improve printhead durability, and automate post-processing. However, overcoming the intertwined challenges of technical limitations, high costs, and scalability will be critical for jetting to move beyond niche applications and achieve broader industrial adoption in the coming years.
Sustainability and Regulatory Developments
Jetting technology, encompassing material jetting (MJ), binder jetting (BJ), and related inkjet-based additive manufacturing (AM) processes, is increasingly scrutinized for its sustainability profile and regulatory compliance as the sector matures into 2025 and beyond. The drive toward greener manufacturing and tighter environmental standards is shaping both the development and adoption of jetting-based AM systems.
A key sustainability advantage of jetting technologies lies in their inherently low material waste. Unlike subtractive methods, jetting processes deposit material only where needed, with Stratasys and 3D Systems—two of the largest players in material jetting—highlighting up to 90% material utilization rates in their latest systems. This efficiency is particularly relevant as manufacturers seek to minimize resource consumption and reduce landfill waste from support structures and failed prints.
Material innovation is another focal point. Companies such as voxeljet and ExOne (now part of Desktop Metal) are advancing binder jetting with new, more sustainable binders and powder feedstocks, including recycled metals and sand. In 2024, voxeljet announced progress in using inorganic binders for sand casting molds, which reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during printing and post-processing. Similarly, Stratasys has introduced photopolymers with improved recyclability and lower toxicity, aligning with evolving chemical safety regulations.
Regulatory developments are accelerating, especially in the European Union and North America. The EU’s Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan are prompting AM system manufacturers to document lifecycle impacts and ensure compliance with stricter waste and chemical management rules. In the U.S., the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is increasing oversight of emissions from AM processes, particularly regarding nanoparticle release and VOCs from photopolymer jetting. Companies are responding by investing in closed-loop material handling, improved filtration, and emissions monitoring systems.
Looking ahead, the next few years will likely see further harmonization of standards for AM sustainability, with organizations such as ASTM International and ISO working on new guidelines for environmental performance and safe material use in jetting-based AM. Industry leaders are expected to expand their portfolios of eco-friendly materials and to offer more transparent environmental data, as customers in aerospace, automotive, and healthcare increasingly demand proof of sustainability.
In summary, jetting technology for additive manufacturing is poised for significant advances in sustainability and regulatory compliance through 2025 and beyond, driven by material innovation, process efficiency, and proactive engagement with evolving global standards.
Future Outlook: Opportunities, Risks, and Strategic Recommendations
Jetting technology, encompassing material jetting (MJ), binder jetting (BJ), and nanoparticle jetting (NPJ), is poised for significant evolution in additive manufacturing (AM) through 2025 and the following years. The sector is characterized by rapid innovation, expanding material portfolios, and increasing industrial adoption, but also faces technical and market risks that will shape its trajectory.
Opportunities for jetting-based AM are expanding as leading manufacturers invest in higher throughput, multi-material capabilities, and improved resolution. Stratasys, a pioneer in PolyJet technology, continues to enhance its systems for prototyping and end-use parts, with a focus on full-color, multi-material printing. 3D Systems is similarly advancing its MultiJet Printing (MJP) platforms, targeting applications in healthcare, dental, and industrial sectors. Binder jetting, led by companies such as ExOne (now part of Desktop Metal), Desktop Metal, and HP, is gaining traction for metal and ceramic part production, with a focus on scalability and cost reduction.
Recent events highlight the sector’s momentum. In 2024, HP announced further expansion of its Metal Jet platform, targeting automotive and industrial customers with higher productivity and new material qualifications. Desktop Metal and ExOne have both reported increased adoption of binder jetting for serial production, particularly in automotive and consumer goods. Stratasys and 3D Systems are also investing in software and workflow automation to streamline the transition from prototyping to production.
However, risks remain. Material qualification and part certification are ongoing challenges, especially for critical applications in aerospace and medical sectors. The complexity of post-processing, particularly for binder jetting, can limit throughput and part quality. Intellectual property (IP) concerns and supply chain dependencies for printheads and specialty materials also pose strategic risks. Furthermore, competition from alternative AM technologies, such as powder bed fusion and directed energy deposition, may constrain market share growth for jetting-based systems.
Strategic recommendations for stakeholders include:
- Invest in R&D for new materials, especially metals and ceramics, to broaden application scope and address certification barriers.
- Collaborate with end-users and standards organizations to accelerate qualification and regulatory acceptance.
- Develop integrated software and automation solutions to reduce post-processing bottlenecks and enable true digital manufacturing workflows.
- Monitor supply chain resilience for critical components, such as printheads and specialty inks or binders.
- Position jetting technology as complementary to other AM processes, leveraging its strengths in multi-material and high-resolution applications.
Overall, jetting technology is set for robust growth through 2025, with opportunities in industrial, healthcare, and consumer sectors, provided that technical and strategic challenges are proactively addressed by industry leaders such as Stratasys, 3D Systems, HP, and Desktop Metal.
