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Bio-Inspired 3D-Printed Polymeric Sheets for Orthoses: Predictive Modeling of Mechanical Integrity and Moisture
Rosa Devesa-Rey1, Elena Arce2, Silvia Losada-Pérez3
1University Defense Center at Spanish Naval Academy, University of Vigo, 36920 Marín, Spain.
Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 25, 2026
Summary
3D-printed polymers for custom orthoses were tested for stability in saline environments. Standard Blue Resin maintained hardness, while polylactic acid (PLA) and soy-based resins absorbed more moisture, impacting wearable device durability.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Additive Manufacturing
Background:
- Additive manufacturing enables personalized biomedical devices like orthoses.
- Orthoses require structural integrity under physiological conditions.
- Material stability is crucial for hygiene and long-term performance of wearable devices.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate 3D-printed polymer performance in saline environments simulating sweat and hygiene.
- Assess moisture absorption and hardness of various polymers.
- Develop predictive models for material selection in wearable devices.
Main Methods:
- Tested polylactic acid (PLA), Standard Blue Resin, and ecological soy-based resin.
- Utilized a Box-Behnken design to analyze effects of thickness, NaCl concentration, and immersion time.
- Measured moisture absorption and Shore A hardness as response variables.
Main Results:
- Standard Blue Resin exhibited superior surface hardness stability.
- Bio-based materials (PLA, soy resin) showed higher susceptibility to moisture absorption.
- Thinner polymer sheets were more affected by moisture, especially bio-based ones.
Conclusions:
- Material selection and geometric design are critical for durable, hygienic orthoses.
- Standard Blue Resin offers better hardness stability in saline conditions.
- Predictive models can optimize biomimetic wearable device development.
