Additive fingerprints could help trace 3D-printed weapons

A new technology developed by engineers from University at Buffalo reveals the unique fingerprints of 3D-printers and could help trace counterfeit goods and weapons.

Known as PrinTracker, it examines the in-fill patterns of 3D-printed objects. While theoretically, all objects printed from the same CAD design should be the same on different printers, the model type, filament, nozzle size and other factors cause slight imperfections in these patterns. Just like fingerprints, the patterns are unique to each printer and consistent over time, meaning they can be used to match a 3D-printed object to its source. The advance could help authorities track the origin of 3D-printed guns, counterfeit products and other goods.

"3D printing has many wonderful uses, but it's also a counterfeiter's dream,” said study lead author Wenyao Xu, associate professor of computer science and engineering at Buffalo’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. “Even more concerning, it has the potential to make firearms more readily available to people who are not allowed to possess them."