According to his company's website, Mr Dini's industrial sized 3D printer uses sand and a special binding agent to create a "marble like material" stronger than cement.

BBC: Landscape House

What this suggests is a natural division of labour: a trouser maker could assemble average-sized khakis in volume in Mexico, but make special sizes such as narrow waists or long inseams in the United States, offering fast turnaround for retailers and less risk of overstocking.

ECONOMIST: American textiles

Special Offer: Nanotech companies can produce mega-sized gains.

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