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PISA printing perfusable microcapillaries
Aaron Priester1, Jimmy Yeng1, Yuwei Zhang2
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, 1400 North Bishop Avenue, Rolla, MO 65409, USA. convertinea@mst.edu.
Biomaterials Science
|May 27, 2025
Summary
This study introduces a simplified PISA printing method using multi-CTA scaffolds for fabricating complex 3D structures. The technique enables precise control over nanoscale features and creates robust, dissolvable networks for advanced microfabrication.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Microfabrication
Background:
- Polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) printing integrates reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and digital light projection (DLP) photolithography.
- Existing methods often require complex synthesis and purification steps for creating 3D polymer structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a simplified, one-pot, purification-free synthesis for multi-chain transfer agent (multi-CTA) scaffolds for PISA printing.
- To demonstrate precise control over nanoscale morphologies and selective distribution behaviors in printed structures.
- To showcase the fabrication of functional microdevices using this enhanced PISA printing approach.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a one-pot synthesis for multi-CTA scaffolds, eliminating purification steps.
- Employed PISA printing by combining RAFT polymerization with DLP photolithography.
- Tuned solvent-resin chemistry and polymer composition to control material properties and printing outcomes.
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized multi-CTA scaffolds that form spontaneous, robust physical networks during printing.
- Achieved precise control over nanoscale morphologies and selective distribution behaviors by adjusting material parameters.
- Fabricated perfusable microvascular networks and open-channel polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic devices with stable microchannels after scaffold dissolution.
Conclusions:
- The simplified PISA printing approach enhances accessibility, flexibility, and functionality for microfabrication.
- This adaptable platform is suitable for rapid prototyping and advanced tissue engineering applications.
- The developed method offers an efficient route to creating complex, high-resolution 3D polymer structures without permanent crosslinks.
