Journal of 3D Printing and Applications

Journal of 3D Printing and Applications

Journal of 3D Printing and Applications – Data Archiving Permissions

Open Access & Peer-Reviewed

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3D Printing and Applications

Transparent data archiving that strengthens additive manufacturing research

Data Archiving Permissions

J3DPA encourages authors to share data, models, and process files that support their published findings. Open data improves reproducibility, accelerates engineering adoption, and increases the long term value of additive manufacturing research.

Open Data Friendly
DOI Citable Datasets
Clear Availability
Secure Sensitive Data

Policy Overview

Authors may archive data that supports their findings in institutional, disciplinary, or general purpose repositories. J3DPA recommends repositories that provide persistent identifiers so datasets remain citable and linked to the published article. Data should be shared in formats that allow reuse and independent verification.

Data archiving is strongly encouraged for experimental measurements, process parameter sets, simulation inputs and outputs, and performance benchmarks. Where full data sharing is not possible, authors should provide a clear explanation and describe how qualified readers may access the data under reasonable conditions.

Benefits of Data Sharing

Shared datasets improve research impact by enabling other teams to validate results, compare materials, and build on published workflows. In additive manufacturing, data transparency is especially valuable because performance can vary by printer settings, material batches, and post processing steps. Clear data makes it easier for industry to replicate outcomes and for academic groups to extend the work.

Open data also supports citation growth. Researchers frequently cite datasets when they reuse parameters or benchmark results. A well documented dataset with a DOI can become a reusable asset that complements the article and increases visibility across materials, manufacturing, and biomedical engineering disciplines.

Where to Archive Your Data

IN

Institutional Repositories

University and research institute repositories are suitable for funded projects and provide stable links for long term access. These options often align with grant or institutional compliance requirements.

DS

Disciplinary Repositories

Field specific archives can improve discoverability within materials science, mechanical engineering, and biomedical printing communities. Use them when domain standards or metadata requirements apply.

GP

General Purpose Platforms

Repositories such as Zenodo or Figshare provide DOIs and support a wide range of file types, including CAD files, STL files, and large datasets. These platforms are widely used across engineering fields.

PR

Private or Restricted Access

When data includes sensitive information or proprietary content, authors may use restricted access repositories. Provide a clear statement on access conditions and contact information.

Data Availability Statements

Required statement: Every manuscript must include a data availability statement indicating where data are stored and how they can be accessed. If data are publicly available, include the repository name and persistent link.

Restricted data: If data cannot be openly shared due to confidentiality, explain the reason and provide a pathway for access, such as approval from a data steward or institutional review board.

No data generated: If the study does not generate new datasets, state this clearly. Example: "No new data were created or analyzed in this study."

Embargoes and Sensitive Content

Embargoes may be permitted when required by patent filings, industry agreements, or ongoing commercialization efforts. Authors should disclose embargo timelines at submission and describe the reason for temporary restriction. J3DPA supports reasonable embargoes when they are necessary and clearly documented.

For biomedical printing and patient related data, comply with ethical approvals and privacy regulations. De identify data where possible and avoid sharing any information that could reveal participant identity. The editorial office may request additional documentation for sensitive datasets. The team can advise on anonymization strategies when needed.

Best Practices for Reusable Data

Organize

Make files easy to interpret
  • Use descriptive file names and folders
  • Provide a readme and file inventory
  • Include units and measurement methods
  • Define variables and column headers
  • Document software and versions used

Validate

Ensure accuracy and usability
  • Check for missing or corrupted files
  • Confirm metadata matches manuscript
  • Provide sample calculations or scripts
  • Note limitations or known issues
  • Test data access links before submit

Link

Connect data to the article
  • Include repository DOI in manuscript
  • Reference datasets in figure captions
  • Use consistent identifiers in text
  • State access terms in availability note
  • Update links if repository changes

Publish with Transparent Data Practices

Share your 3D printing data with clarity and confidence. The editorial team can guide you if you have questions about repositories or data access policies.