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Updated: Jan 25, 2026
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3D Printing of Preclinical X-ray Computed Tomographic Data Sets
Published on: March 22, 2013
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X-ray microfocus computed tomography: a powerful tool for structural and functional characterisation of 3D printed
C I Gioumouxouzis1, O L Katsamenis2, D G Fatouros1
1Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
Journal of Microscopy
|May 1, 2019
Summary
Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers revolutionary potential for pharmaceutical manufacturing. High-resolution X-ray microfocus Computed Tomography (μCT) can characterize 3D printed drug products, ensuring quality and optimal drug release.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Technology
- Materials Science
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Three-dimensional (3D) printing is revolutionizing pharmaceutical manufacturing, enabling complex dosage form fabrication.
- 3D printed drugs offer tailored drug release profiles and streamlined production.
- Deviations from ideal designs can occur during the 3D printing process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the potential of X-ray microfocus Computed Tomography (μCT) for characterizing 3D printed dosage forms.
- To explore μCT as a Process Analytical Technology (PAT) for quality control in pharmaceutical 3D printing.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing high-resolution, nondestructive 3D (volume) imaging.
- Employing X-ray microfocus Computed Tomography (μCT) for structural analysis.
- Assessing functional characteristics through detailed imaging.
Main Results:
- μCT provides high-resolution, nondestructive structural characterization of 3D printed dosage forms.
- This imaging technique can identify and quantify deviations from designed templates.
- Potential for real-time process monitoring and quality assurance.
Conclusions:
- X-ray microfocus Computed Tomography (μCT) is a promising Process Analytical Technology (PAT) for 3D printed pharmaceuticals.
- μCT enables comprehensive structural and functional characterization, ensuring product quality.
- This technology can facilitate the clinical translation of advanced 3D printed drug products.
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