SUMMARY

The advent of additive manufacturing (AM), commonly known as 3D printing, has enabled the rapid fabrication of complex structures previously unrealizable with traditional manufacturing techniques. Additionally, smart, or active materials able to respond to external stimulus such as light and heat have become highly desirable for applications such as smart robotics and implantable medical devices. The focus of my dissertation lies directly at the intersection of 3D printing, smart materials, and the multi-functional composites that can be produced using these technologies. The following dissertation will detail my doctoral research conducted on novel 3D printing techniques, smart/active materials, functional composite design, and provide a perspective on the future of the technology.