Additive Manufacturing for Remedying Supply Chain Disruptions and Building Resilient and Sustainable Logistics Support Systems

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The paper is well-structured and provides a comprehensive overview of the role of additive manufacturing (AM) in addressing supply chain (SC) disruptions. It is interesting. Before publication, some revisons should be made.

1. In the Introduction section, it lacks critical engagement with recent studies (e.g., 2023–2024) on AM’s post-pandemic applications.
2. While the paper argues for AM’s role in decentralized production (Page 10), some actionable steps for SC managers are suggested.
3. AI-driven AM process optimization is also suggested to discuss. 
4. Tables are suggested in summarizing case studies with metrics.

Author Response

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - I

The paper is well-structured and provides a comprehensive overview of the role of additive manufacturing (AM) in addressing supply chain (SC) disruptions. It is interesting. Before publication, some revisions should be made. In the Introduction section, it lacks critical engagement with recent studies (e.g., 2023–2024) on AM’s post-pandemic applications.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion - I

Studies on AM's post-pandemic applications were mentioned in the introduction of our article. In this context, references [16, 17, 18], published in 2023 and 2024, were included in the study.

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - II

While the paper argues for AM’s role in decentralized production (Page 10), some actionable steps for SC managers are suggested.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion - II

Some actionable steps for supply chain (SC) managers are suggested between lines 579-591

SC managers can adopt several measures to effectively cope with decentralized production using AM technologies. One of the most important measures to cope with decentralized production using AM technologies is to create a system for SC managers to replace the manufacturing on demand system. Switching to digital inventory management can help with this transition. AM technologies require the establishment of regional production centers. These structures make it difficult to control product quality compared to traditional production centers. Creating real-time monitoring methods can help overcome this challenge. Prioritizing optimization at every stage of SC processes, using data analytics and AI-powered tools can contribute to this. It is also necessary to be prepared for issues such as workforce training and intellectual property issues. Finally, in order to overcome the negative impacts on the environment in production processes, it is necessary to select raw materials and semi-finished products from recyclable materials and to minimize production waste.

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - III

AI-driven AM process optimization is also suggested to discuss. 

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – III

A paragraph on AI-supported AM process optimization has been added between the lines 592-603.

 

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report – IV

Tables are suggested in summarizing case studies with metrics.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion - IV

A table with a title ‘Table 1. Summary of Cases of SC Disruptions and Implications’ was added to page 212.  

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

How can we help scale AM technology adoption without straining local resources or driving up costs?

How can AM technology find the right balance between improving efficiency and achieving sustainability goals, particularly in industries that have significant environmental impacts?

How can AM technology be adapted to manage the complexities of supply chains in fast-changing and unpredictable environments, especially in emerging markets?

I suggest discussing the future scope of the work in the conclusion section, highlighting potential advancements, unexplored research areas, and practical applications that could enhance its impact.

In the conclusions, the authors used 'hubs and centers,' but they may have actually meant 'hub and spokes.'

Author Response

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - I

How can we help scale AM technology adoption without straining local resources or driving up costs?

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – I

In response to the comments and suggestions above, we added the following paragraph between lines 467-479

Scaling AM technologies without straining local resources or increasing costs, a three-pillar strategy focusing on efficiency, cost, and sustainability should be adopted. Within this framework, priority should be given to sourcing raw materials and semi-finished products locally whenever possible. Opting for recyclable materials not only minimizes environmental impact and costs but also enhances sustainability. Applying standardization—one of the key principles of logistics—to AM production processes helps streamline logistics operations. Cost-effectiveness should always be a fundamental consideration in AM applications, as it is essential for achieving low-cost production and affordable products. Since fully transitioning to AM technologies at an early stage may not be feasible due to technological limitations and market dynamics, a hybrid approach that integrates traditional manufacturing methods can help reduce costs. Additionally, outsourcing and leasing can mitigate the need for large upfront investments, thereby lowering the overall financial burden.

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - II

How can AM technology find the right balance between improving efficiency and achieving sustainability goals, particularly in industries that have significant environmental impacts?

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – II

In response to the comments and suggestions above, we added the following paragraph between lines 480-496

The strategies should be implemented to minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and promote circular economy practices to balance efficiency and sustainability in production processes supported by AM technologies, Prioritizing the use of recyclable and bio-based materials, such as recycled powders and biodegradable polymers, enhances material efficiency and reduces waste, ultimately improving production efficiency and mitigating environmental impact. By enabling the reuse of excess or defective products in re-production processes, AM technologies contribute to both efficiency and sustainability. The integration of AI-driven algorithms further optimizes these processes, enhancing productivity and resource utilization. The expected benefits of AM vary by industry. In the aviation and automotive sectors, for instance, lightweight components are preferred to improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions. In construction, durability is a priority, with sustainability achieved through the use of degradable or recycled materials. In the medical sector, AM technologies help reduce biological waste and minimize errors in the production of high-cost implants and prosthetics. Additionally, AM technologies facilitate localized production, reducing transportation-related emissions. By integrating AM with sustainable practices, industries can enhance efficiency, minimize environmental impact, and align technological advancements with global sustainability goals.

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - III

How can AM technology be adapted to manage the complexities of supply chains in fast-changing and unpredictable environments, especially in emerging markets?

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – III

In response to the comments and suggestions above, we added the following paragraph between lines 527-540

AM technology can help manage the complexities of supply chains in rapidly changing and unpredictable environments, particularly in emerging markets, due to its flexibility, speed, and localized production capabilities. By enabling production closer to demand points, AM simplifies and strengthens supply chains, reducing the sustainability risks associated with global logistics. In emerging markets, localized production helps lower transportation costs and shortens delivery times. AM also plays a crucial role in implementing the just-in-time (JIT) philosophy, a key principle in efficient logistics. By allowing on-demand production, AM enhances supply chain responsiveness, reducing the need for large-scale warehousing and minimizing delays caused by unpredictable market fluctuations. Additionally, AM enables rapid design, testing, and iteration of products, ensuring businesses can quickly adapt to changing customer demands. This prevents unnecessary stockpiling of spare parts, semi-finished goods, and finished products in warehouses. Moreover, AM reduces the time and costs associated with maintenance processes, easing the financial burden on businesses while improving overall efficiency.

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - IV

I suggest discussing the future scope of the work in the conclusion section, highlighting potential advancements, unexplored research areas, and practical applications that could enhance its impact.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – IV

In response to the comments and suggestions above, we added the following paragraph in the conclusion section between lines 665-670

The application of AM technology is expected to significantly transform many industries in the near future. However, the extent of this transformation will depend on advancements in areas such as material science and artificial intelligence integration. These developments may present challenges in scalability and sustainability, particularly within supply chains. As these technologies evolve, AM will play a pivotal role in enhancing industrial efficiency and sustainability, ultimately becoming a cornerstone of future manufacturing applications.

 

 

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - V

In the conclusions, the authors used 'hubs and centers,' but they may have actually meant 'hub and spokes.'

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – V

The phrase ''hub and centers' in the conclusion has been changed to 'hub and spokes’.

Reviewer 3 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The author showed a high quality work, the article quality reached the level of publication, the author can follow some of my suggestions to further improve the quality of the article.

The abstract should be more concise and highlight the main findings and contributions of the study. Consider focusing on how additive manufacturing (AM) can specifically improve supply chain (SC) resilience and sustainability, rather than just describing the context of the research.

When discussing specific cases (such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, etc.), more data and statistics can be provided to strengthen the argument.

The methodology section can describe in more detail the specific steps of data collection and analysis, especially how literature is selected and evaluated so that readers understand the reliability and validity of the research.

Figure (Figure 1, Figure 2, etc.) should ensure that they are legible and provide sufficient explanation in the body to help the reader understand their significance and relevance.

Author Response

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - I

The author showed a high quality work, the article quality reached the level of publication, the author can follow some of my suggestions to further improve the quality of the article.

The abstract should be more concise and highlight the main findings and contributions of the study. Consider focusing on how additive manufacturing (AM) can specifically improve supply chain (SC) resilience and sustainability, rather than just describing the context of the research.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – I

Leading industries have implemented various strategic initiatives to enhance the resilience and sustainability of their logistics support systems in response to a series of unforeseen disruptions that have significantly impacted supply chains (SCs) and incurred substantial costs over the past few decades. It is essential to assess whether incorporating additive manufacturing (AM) technologies into logistics support processes—either as a complementary solution or in conjunction with existing strategies—can effectively reduce vulnerabilities to disruptions in modern, complex SCs.

 

The section below that describes the work has been removed from the abstract; 

 Indeed, the integration of AM technologies into SCs can be examined from two distinct perspectives. The first perspective focuses on providing logistics support for the tools and infrastructure required by AM technologies, while the second concerns the utilization of AM to enhance the efficiency of SC processes which this study focuses on. By providing a concise review of existing AM methodologies and adopting a holistic approach to analyzing the causes and consequences of SC disruptions, it seeks to determine how AM integration can improve the sustainability of SC models.

 

and below paragraph has been added to the Abstract.

AM technologies that enable business models that use distributed manufacturing, as opposed to centralized manufacturing, have the potential to create significant change in traditional SC by bringing parts and products closer to the customer. The supply of raw materials for AM production is lower than for traditional methods. While this provides a cost benefit in the current structure, there are still challenges such as testing and final adjustment of printing parameters. AM technologies enable shorter delivery times compared to traditional manufacturing methods while also reducing distribution costs. This not only enhances service levels but also lowers inventory costs across all stages of the supply chain. Additionally, AM technologies can help businesses comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations introduced in recent decades. Both AM-based production and its supporting logistics processes have a smaller ecological footprint compared to traditional manufacturing, making it a more sustainable alternative.

 

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - II

When discussing specific cases (such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, etc.), more data and statistics can be provided to strengthen the argument.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – II

The following two paragraphs containing statistical information were added to lines 105 and 108 to strengthen the arguments when discussing specific cases such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine.

For example after COVID-19 reached the U.S. in mid-March 2020, economic activity, as measured by real GDP, contracted at an annualized rate of 5% in the first quarter. This decline accelerated to a staggering 32% in the second quarter due to government-mandated quarantines, marking the COVID-19 crisis as the fastest and most severe economic shock in modern U.S. history.

Ukraine’s economic output is now at a fraction of its pre-war levels. In the first year of the conflict, the country lost 30-35% of GDP. This led to the largest recession in Ukraine’s history. 

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - III

The methodology section can describe in more detail the specific steps of data collection and analysis, especially how literature is selected and evaluated so that readers understand the reliability and validity of the research.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – III

The following explanation was added to the methodology section, specifically how the literature was selected and evaluated in lines between 681-687

Each article was assessed based on research design, sample size, data sources, and peer-review status. The literature review was conducted using keywords such as 'additive manufacturing,' '3D printing,' 'supply chain resilience,' and 'sustainability.' Only peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers, primarily published after 2020, were included. To ensure relevance to the manufacturing sector, studies focusing on non-industrial applications were excluded.

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - IV

Figure (Figure 1, Figure 2) should ensure that they are legible and provide sufficient explanation in the body to help the reader understand their significance and relevance.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – IV

The following explanation about Figure 1 is included between the lines 376-382.

Although quite complex, with trans-oceanic dimensions, SC processes support three main stages: procurement, production and distribution, which can be broken down into smaller parts as shown in Figure 1. The procurement support covers the set of activities related to meeting the demand for raw materials and semi products. Production support involves all actual production processes logistics where raw materials are transformed into final products. The last stage, distribution support, refers to the support of transactions aimed at delivering final goods to the consumer.

 

The following explanation about Figure 2 is included between the lines 437 - 444.

The relationship between AM and SCs can be viewed in two different dimensions. The first one covers the logistics support of the machines used in the production of AM technologies (Figure 2a), the provision of semi-finished products and raw materials used in AM production processes, or the supply of spare parts required for maintenance support of AM processes. The other is to use AMs to support SC processes to provide logistical benefits (Figure 2b).

Reviewer 4 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

A qualitative and exploratory approach is proposed to analyze the feasibility of AM techniques in mitigating the negative effects of SC disruptions amid growing competitive pressures. The results provide the alternative for the existing methods to prevent logistics support disruptions. The sustainability of SC models can be improved by providing a concise review of existing AM methodologies and adopting a holistic approach to analyze the causes and consequences of SC disruptions. The following questions are required to be addressed. 

1. More literatures about the relationship between AMs and SCs in terms of logistics should be summarized.

2. How to deal with the potential disruptions since the complex nature of the competitive global market?

3. What is the disadvantage of AM technologies for changing the microstructure of material during the laser cutting or welding?

4. The key factors for facing and coping with the possible interruptions are missed.

5. What is the difference between 3d printing and additive manufacturing?

6. Some contents in the conclusions should be reduced.

Comments on the Quality of English Language

The English could be improved to more clearly express the research.

Author Response

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - I

A qualitative and exploratory approach is proposed to analyze the feasibility of AM techniques in mitigating the negative effects of SC disruptions amid growing competitive pressures. The results provide the alternative for the existing methods to prevent logistics support disruptions. The sustainability of SC models can be improved by providing a concise review of existing AM methodologies and adopting a holistic approach to analyze the causes and consequences of SC disruptions. The following questions are required to be addressed. 

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – I

Responses to the reviewer's questions by authors were incorporated into the study to provide a concise review of existing AM methodologies. Additionally, a holistic approach was adopted to analyze the causes and consequences of SC outages, enhancing the sustainability of SC models.

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - II

More literatures about the relationship between AMs and SCs in terms of logistics should be summarized.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – II

The following literature summary on the relationship between AMs and SCs from a logistical perspective has been added to the literature section between lines 63-70.

The literature review on production with AM technology in a SC context reveals that research on AM technologies is increasingly concentrated in developed countries. These studies primarily examine the environmental, economic, and social impacts of AM on SCs, highlighting its effects on cost, time, inventory, production, energy consumption, environmental sustainability, and overall firm performance. However, they also indicate that the application of AM in modern SCs faces certain limitations, including quality control challenges, production defects, constraints on the range of producible products, restrictions on compatible part types, and issues related to technical and mechanical properties.

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - III

How to deal with the potential disruptions since the complex nature of the competitive global market?

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – III

In response to the comments and suggestions above, we added the following paragraph between lines 527-540.

AM technology can help manage the complexities of supply chains in rapidly changing and unpredictable environments, particularly in emerging markets, due to its flexibility, speed, and localized production capabilities. By enabling production closer to demand points, AM simplifies and strengthens supply chains, reducing the sustainability risks associated with global logistics. In emerging markets, localized production helps lower transportation costs and shortens delivery times. AM also plays a crucial role in implementing the just-in-time (JIT) philosophy, a key principle in efficient logistics. By allowing on-demand production, AM enhances supply chain responsiveness, reducing the need for large-scale warehousing and minimizing delays caused by unpredictable market fluctuations. Additionally, AM enables rapid design, testing, and iteration of products, ensuring businesses can quickly adapt to changing customer demands. This prevents unnecessary stockpiling of spare parts, semi-finished goods, and finished products in warehouses. Moreover, AM reduces the time and costs associated with maintenance processes, easing the financial burden on businesses while improving overall efficiency.

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - IV

What is the disadvantage of AM technologies for changing the microstructure of material during the laser cutting or welding?

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – IV

In response to the comments and suggestions above, we added the following paragraph between lines 346-363

Another disadvantage of AM technologies is the possibility of causing changes in the microstructure of the material during operations such as machining, laser cutting or welding.  The rapid heating and cooling cycles in laser-based AM can create residual stresses, which may result in warping, cracking, or distortion in the final product. AM processes can alter grain size, texture, and phase distribution, causing inconsistent mechanical properties—a critical concern in industries like aerospace and medical implants, where uniform material performance is essential. Additionally, high-energy lasers can lead to gas entrapment, keyhole formation, or incomplete fusion, increasing porosity that weakens the material and reduces fatigue resistance. Changes in the microstructure may also introduce brittle phases, reduced ductility, or uneven hardness, negatively impacting the material's strength and durability. Furthermore, laser-based AM methods create a heat-affected zone, where thermal alterations can weaken the structure or cause undesirable phase transformations. To address these microstructural inconsistencies, post-processing techniques such as heat treatment, hot isostatic pressing, and machining are often required, adding extra time and cost to production. While optimized process parameters, controlled cooling rates, and post-processing methods can enhance material properties and reduce defects, it is not possible to eliminate these issues entirely.

 

 

 

 

 

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - V

The key factors for facing and coping with the possible interruptions are missed.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – V

Initially, this topic was given limited coverage under the section titled Coping with Consequences of Disruptions in the SCs' considering the overall length of the study. However, in response to the reviewer's suggestion, the following paragraph was added to address this gap: between lines 418-426

‘In addition to the points mentioned above, effectively facing and coping with possible disruptions requires identifying factors that may cause supply chain disruptions and conducting realistic risk assessments. Utilizing artificial intelligence-based tools can help minimize the impact of potential disruptions, while real-time monitoring of all logistics support processes ensures end-to-end supply chain visibility, including the use of digital twin applications where possible. Diversifying suppliers and sourcing regions for raw materials and semi-finished products is essential, along with establishing rational safety stock levels. Additionally, developing alternative transportation and distribution strategies enables businesses to adapt to potential changes and maintain supply chain resilience.’

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - VI

What is the difference between 3d printing and additive manufacturing?

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – IV

As a response to the comments and suggestions above, we added the following paragraph between lines 293 -301

Although the terms 3D printing and AM are often used interchangeably, it is important to note that they have distinct differences in meaning and application. 3D printing typically refers to smaller-scale processes used by individuals or small businesses while AM is a broader industrial term that refers to the same process of building objects layer by layer, but on a larger, more complex, and high-performance scale. AM involves a wider range of materials, including metals, and is used in industries that require high precision, strength, and durability, such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and construction. Because AM is applied in critical industries, it must meet stringent regulatory and certification standards to ensure safety, quality, and performance compliance. In essence, all 3D printing is a form of AM, but not all AM is considered 3D printing.

Comments and Suggestions in Reviewer Report - V

Some content in the conclusions should be reduced.

Authors Response to Editor’s Comment and Suggestion – V

The following content in the conclusion section was removed because it was similar to the next paragraph;

With the anticipation of overcoming these challenges soon, transforming DCs into hubs and spokes centers having AM technologies is on the way. This prospective shift in SC dynamics is poised to facilitate centralized and tailored production, enabling prompt fulfillment of spontaneous orders from customers globally.

Round 2

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

It is ok, and I suggest for accept.

Reviewer 4 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The authors have revised the manuscript according to the comments. This paper can be accepted.