advances in LED laser devices. It is now possible to cut wood up to nearly half an inch.
One can also cut paper, cardboard, opaque plastics, fabrics. One can etch many materials like stone, glass, metal, plastics, wood, tile. One can use the technology to help create printed circuit boards.
There are a host of materials that can be up-cycled.
Working with lasers is not for the inattentive. A dedicated sprinkled room is advised as well as an air scrubber or exhaust system.
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LED Lasers Most Accessible
CO2 Lasers Best for Cutting but are more involved to install requiring liquid cooling for the laser tube. Tube longevity can be an issue if operating above 80 pct.
Fiber Lasers Best for Metal Marking and Etching
As far as operating costs, fiber needs only about 1/3 the operating power compared to CO2 Under 6mm
Ender 3 with laser head allows for z axis control.
Could be adapted to existing laser frame.
Engineering grade plastics demand can be printed on machines in the 300 dollar range.
Metal 3d printing machines are the tip of the technology. A work around is lost pla casting.
There are also options for printing bio materials.
I suspect that there is huge potential in the area of medicine and dentistry.
CNC Water Jet:Can cut anything and produce the finest products. One of the more pricey technologies to first acquire.