Of material interest: Angel cast in laser-sintered ceramic mold

A 130-year-old sandstone angel from Aachen (Germany) was copied using state-of-the-art technology. First, the statue was scanned using computer tomography (CT). Second, a 3D computer model was constructed from the slices. Third, the data was used to produce a zirconium silicate mold by laser sintering. Overall, use of the rapid manufacturing method eliminated the need for a wax or plastic copy of the sculpture.