Machine design and processing considerations for the 3D plotting of thermoplastic scaffolds
Kim Ragaert1, Ludwig Cardon, Arne Dekeyser
1Department of Applied Engineering Sciences, Centre for Polymers and Materials Technology, University College Ghent, Voskenslaan 362, 9000 Gent, Belgium. kim.ragaert@hogent.be
Biofabrication
|September 3, 2010
Summary
3D plotting via micro-extrusion fabricates polymer scaffolds but causes thermal degradation in sensitive materials. This impacts scaffold properties and process reliability, necessitating solutions for improved manufacturing.
Area of Science:
- Polymer science and engineering
- Biomaterials fabrication
- Additive manufacturing
Background:
- 3D plotting by micro-extrusion is a solvent-free method for creating polymer scaffolds with controlled geometry and porosity.
- This technique is promising for scaffold production in various applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the challenges of processing thermally sensitive polymers using 3D plotting by micro-extrusion.
- To identify the causes of thermal degradation during this fabrication process.
- To propose potential solutions to mitigate these issues.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of thermal load during micro-extrusion processing of thermoplastic polymers.
- Evaluation of polymer degradation mechanisms, specifically chain scission.
- Assessment of the impact of degradation on scaffold mechanical properties and fabrication consistency.
Main Results:
- Thermally sensitive polymers undergo significant degradation due to thermal load during micro-extrusion.
- Degradation by chain scission negatively affects scaffold mechanical integrity.
- The process exhibits reduced predictability and repeatability due to material degradation.
Conclusions:
- Thermal degradation is a critical challenge in 3D plotting of sensitive polymers.
- Understanding the causes of degradation is essential for process optimization.
- Further research is needed to develop strategies for mitigating thermal degradation and improving scaffold quality.
