Improved Syringe Extruder for Improved Processing of Biological Materials

• Published in: Materials science forum Vol. 941; pp. 2442 - 2447
• Main Authors: Zinn, Steffen, Schlegel, Volker, Bonaiuto, Vincenzo, Foitzik, Andreas H., Engels, Andreas
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Pfaffikon Trans Tech Publications Ltd 01.01.2018
• Subjects: Aerodynamics; Biological evolution; Biological materials; Computational fluid dynamics; Computer simulation; Gels; Laboratories; Printers; Process parameters; R&D; Research & development; Substrates; Three dimensional printing; Ventilation; Bio-Fabrication; Bio-Ink; Bioprinting; Process Parameter Improvement; Open-Source
• ISSN: 0255-5476; 1662-9752; 1662-9752
• DOI: 10.4028/www.scientific.net/MSF.941.2442

3 dimensional (3D) printing evolved during the last decade to a consumer friendly and affordable craft. Furthermore, implementations of this techniques in the field of biotechnological research and development within laboratories is a very expansive process. Bio-printers’ prices cover a wide spectrum and most basic models are available for around 5000€. On the other end, high-end printer machines with a vast variety of features are available for several hundreds of thousands of euros. Thus, due to the immense potential in the field of Biotechnology the availability of this technology for research purpose should be enhanced. A developed ecological syringe extruder prototype for processing of biological based gels has been further improved. The original prototype was capable to processing multiple layers of agar with concentrations of 1% and 2.5%. Based on these results the prototype was revised regarding printing process parameter, which include among others applied forces to the substrate, air-ventilation, and heating of the substrate. The process behavior will be simulated with computational fluid dynamics for the processing of biological based substrate. After a concluding validation these results are intended to be implemented into a new design for improved processing of a variety of bioinks.