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Advanced printable hydrogels from pre-crosslinked alginate as a new tool in semi solid extrusion 3D printing process
Giovanni Falcone1, Pierluigi Mazzei2, Alessandro Piccolo3
1Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy; PhD Program in Drug Discovery and Development, University of Salerno (SA), Italy.
Carbohydrate Polymers
|November 26, 2021
Summary
Pre-crosslinking alginate ink-gels with calcium ions improves 3D printing shape fidelity and prevents matrix collapse after drying. This method enhances hydrogel performance for better shape retention and printability.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Hydrogel Chemistry
- 3D Printing Technologies
Background:
- Alginate hydrogels face challenges with shape fidelity during 3D printing and post-drying matrix collapse.
- Improving the structural integrity of alginate-based materials is crucial for advanced applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of pre-crosslinking alginate ink-gels with calcium ions on hydrogel performance.
- To optimize alginate ink-gel properties for enhanced shape fidelity and printability in semisolid extrusion 3D printing.
Main Methods:
- Studied the influence of varying pre-crosslinker (Ca2+) concentrations (10-25 mM) on ink-gel rheological properties.
- Characterized ink gels using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
- Assessed extrudability and shape retention of printed forms post-printing and post-drying.
Main Results:
- Pre-crosslinking significantly improved rheological properties, flow behavior, and viscoelasticity of alginate ink-gels.
- Optimal calcium concentrations (0.15-0.25 M) were identified, promoting egg-box dimer and multimer interactions.
- Demonstrated good extrudability and enhanced shape retention for pre-crosslinked gels.
Conclusions:
- Pre-crosslinking alginate with low calcium concentrations is an effective strategy to overcome shape fidelity issues in 3D printing.
- The study establishes a relationship between shear-thinning behavior, printability, and shape retention in pre-crosslinked alginate hydrogels.
