PorMe: A validated open-source image-based pore size and porosity measurement tool for 3D-printed structures

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Tissue Engineering
• Image Analysis

Background:

• Characterizing the inner micro-architecture of 3D-printed scaffolds is crucial for tissue engineering.
• Existing methods can be destructive or lack high-throughput capabilities for in situ analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a non-destructive, high-throughput image analysis tool for in situ characterization of 3D-printed scaffold micro-architecture.
• To assess geometrical, porous, and fiber-based properties layer-by-layer during the printing process.

Main Methods:

• An open-source, image-based software was developed using images acquired vertically during printing.
• Images were stacked to create a 3D representation for analysis.
• The Porosity Measurement (PorMe) algorithm was detailed, including image acquisition, segmentation, and pore analysis.

Main Results:

• The tool accurately assessed geometrical properties, including fiber diameter, orientation, pore size, and porosity.
• Validation using 3D cylindrical scaffolds showed high agreement with Archimedes and microCT methods for porosity and architecture homogeneity.
• Demonstrated high-throughput and non-destructive assessment of scaffold inner structure.

Conclusions:

• The developed non-destructive image analysis tool provides a reliable and efficient method for in situ characterization of 3D-printed scaffolds.
• The open-source software facilitates detailed analysis of scaffold micro-architecture, supporting advancements in tissue engineering.
• Layer-wise assessment offers superior insights compared to traditional methods focusing only on outer layers.