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Updated: Sep 25, 2025
Design of an Open-Source, Low-Cost Bioink and Food Melt Extrusion 3D Printer
Published on: March 2, 2020
Design and implementation of a low cost bio-printer modification, allowing for switching between plastic and gel
Adolf Krige1, Jakub Haluška1, Ulrika Rova1
1Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden.
Abstract:
Due to the high cost of bioprinters they are not feasible for proof of concept experiments or educational purposes. Furthermore, the more affordable DIY methods all disable the plastic printing capability of the original printer. Here we present an affordable bio-printing modification that is easy to install and maintains the original capabilities of the printer. The modification used mostly 3D printed parts and is based on the popular, open-source Prusa i3 3D printer. The modifications are kept as simple as possible and uses standard slicing software, allowing for installation by less experienced builders. By using disposable syringes and easily sterilizable parts, an aseptic bioprinting setup can be achieved, depending on the environment. It also allows for 2 component printing as well as UV curing. The bio-printing and curing capabilities were shown by printing and curing an artificial biofilm of an electro-active bacteria, Geobacter sulfurreducens, onto a carbon-cloth electrode which was used in a microbial fuel cell.
