# I-Corps: Translation Potential of a Powder Spreadability Testing Device for Additive Manufacturing

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Wisconsin-Madison (WI) · $50,000

## Abstract

This I-Corps project focuses on the development of an accurate and precise quality control testing device for evaluating and approving powdered materials, referred to as qualifying feedstock powders, used in powder-based additive manufacturing (AM). The quality of the AM printed components depends on the quality of the powders that feed into the AM machine. If not closely monitored and controlled these powders can cause manufacturing defects. Qualifying feedstock powders is critical to ensuring repeatability, part quality, and performance, especially in industries like aerospace, medical device, and automotive, where safety and performance standards are strict. This solution provides a powder spreadability testing device that addresses this challenge. The adoption of this device has the potential to increase product quality and consistency, reduce machine downtime, reduce powder waste, and shorten the development cycle for powder bed-based additive manufacturing. 

This I-Corps project utilizes experiential learning coupled with a first-hand investigation of the industry ecosystem to assess the translation potential of the technology. This solution is based on the development of a testing device that can accurately test and quantify the spreadability of feedstock powders for powder bed-based additive manufacturing processes. The powder testing methods currently used in the additive manufacturing industry test the flow behavior of powders as bulk assemblies, meaning that the

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2521047
- **Awardee organization:** University of Wisconsin-Madison (WI)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** LCLSJAGTNZQ7
- **PI:** Lianyi Chen
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Materials Engineering
- **Estimated total:** $50,000
- **Funds obligated:** $50,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2026

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2521047

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2521047, I-Corps: Translation Potential of a Powder Spreadability Testing Device for Additive Manufacturing. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2521047. Licensed CC0.

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