3D Printable Electrically Conductive Hydrogel Scaffolds for Biomedical Applications: A Review

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Additive Manufacturing
• Bioelectronics

Background:

• Electrically conductive hydrogels (ECHs) are promising biomaterials for biomedical applications.
• 3D printing offers advanced fabrication of ECHs for implants and devices with tailored properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of state-of-the-art 3D printed ECHs.
• To discuss conductive materials, printing mechanisms, and design considerations.
• To highlight recent advances, challenges, and future directions in the field.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on 3D printed ECHs incorporating conductive polymers (polythiophene, polyaniline, polypyrrole) and fillers (graphene, MXenes, liquid metals).
• Analysis of electrical conductivity mechanisms and design strategies for tunable properties and biocompatibility.
• Discussion of bioink formulation, 3D printing techniques, and hybrid fabrication methods.

Main Results:

• Overview of 3D printed ECHs using various conductive components.
• Insights into conductivity mechanisms, design for functionality, and biocompatibility.
• Identification of current challenges and emerging hybrid 3D printing methods.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing is a key technology for fabricating advanced ECHs for diverse biomedical applications.
• Further research is needed to overcome challenges and explore novel hybrid fabrication techniques for enhanced ECHs.