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A dual nozzle 3D printing system for super soft composite hydrogels
Andi Dine1, Edward Bentley1, Loic A PoulmarcK1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK.
Hardwarex
|May 2, 2022
Summary
Developing a new 3D printing machine for super-soft hydrogels, this study overcomes challenges in printing tissue-like materials. The advanced extrusion additive manufacturing (AM) system achieves micro-scale precision for soft materials.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Additive Manufacturing
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- 3D printing soft, human-tissue-like materials is difficult due to their inability to support their own weight.
- Existing extrusion-based additive manufacturing (AM) systems lack the precision and control required for super-soft hydrogels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel extrusion AM machine capable of 3D printing super-soft hydrogels with micro-scale precision.
- To enhance conventional 3D printers with specialized subsystems for improved soft material printing.
Main Methods:
- Integration of a heated dual nozzle extrusion system and a cooling platform into a conventional 3D printer.
- Modification of printer electronics for precise temperature control of the extrusion system.
- Alteration of printer software and firmware to enable automated flow rate control, preventing overflows.
Main Results:
- Successful development of an extrusion AM machine specifically designed for super-soft hydrogels.
- Achieved micro-scale precision in printing soft, tissue-mimicking parts.
- Demonstrated automated procedures and enhanced control over the printing process.
Conclusions:
- The developed extrusion AM system overcomes limitations in printing soft materials.
- The novel hardware and software modifications enable precise fabrication of super-soft hydrogels.
- This advancement holds potential for applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
