Biodegradable filaments for 3D printing: a bibliometric review of materials, trends, and sustainability perspectives

Introduction: The growing concern with sustainability has stimulated research into biodegradable polymers for 3D printing applications. Despite their widespread use, conventional thermoplastics raise environmental problems due to their high resistance to environmental degradation. Objective: To explore the existing literature on biodegradable polymers used in filament production for 3D printing, focusing on their properties, processing conditions, and biodegradation behavior. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using studies published in the Scopus and Web of Science databases to gain insights into the development and trends in this field. The analysis was performed using VOSviewer and the Bibliometrix package in R, allowing for the identification of research trends, key contributors, and relevant topics. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology was also applied to ensure a systematic and transparent selection of studies. Results: The results reveal that the main research topics are polylactic acid (PLA), composites, and mechanical properties, reflecting efforts to improve biodegradable materials. Among the most frequently used keywords are 3D printing, additive manufacturing, and sustainability, whilst topics such as the circular economy and life-cycle assessment are gaining increasing attention. The most prominent authors in this field during the period (2022–2024) and the articles under review include Mansingh B., Patti A., Raghunathan V., and Subramani R. There is also growing interest in alternative biopolymers, such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHB), as well as in the use of waste for the production of eco-friendly filaments. Conclusion: These findings highlight the role of biodegradable filaments in promoting more sustainable 3D printing. The study provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research and highlights the potential of biodegradable materials to drive more sustainable additive manufacturing technologies.