Bacterial Biofilm Growth on 3D-Printed Materials

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Microbiology
• Medical Device Engineering

Background:

• 3D printing enables low-cost prosthetics and external medical devices.
• Biofouling and biofilm formation on medical devices cause infections.
• 3D printed devices saw increased consideration during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess bacterial biofouling and biofilm formation on 3D printed materials.
• To evaluate the colonization of common opportunistic pathogens on polylactic acid (PLA) polymers.
• To compare the antimicrobial properties of tested PLA polymers with commercial alternatives.

Main Methods:

• Investigated biofilm formation of *Escherichia coli*, *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*, and *Staphylococcus aureus*.
• Utilized biofilm quantification, surface topography analysis, digital optical microscopy, and 3D projections.
• Examined eight commonly used polylactic acid (PLA) polymers for material properties.

Main Results:

• Biofilm formation varied significantly across different 3D printed PLA surfaces.
• Surface structure and hydrophobicity were key factors influencing bacterial colonization.
• Tested polymers exhibited a broad spectrum of antimicrobial properties.

Conclusions:

• The study provides methods for evaluating bacterial adhesion on 3D printed materials.
• Material properties of 3D printed polymers critically affect their susceptibility to biofouling.
• Further research is needed to develop 3D printed materials with enhanced resistance to biofilm formation for medical use.