In the field of Advanced Manufacturing and Design, I delved into the expansive potential of Additive Manufacturing (AM), frequently known as 3D printing. This technology diverges from conventional production methods by reducing waste and allowing for the creation of lightweight, intricate structures with optimized material and energy consumption. Specifically, the AM process holds promising capabilities for the medical industry, enabling designers to finely control pore size and internal architecture at a microscopic level which traditional casting and molding methods cannot match.
My focus extended to the application of AM in crafting biomedical materials with fresh design perspectives, opening up more precise and widespread applications in designing implants, medical devices, and tissue engineering applications. Understanding that not all AM processes are developed equally for medical devices and biomaterials, my summary addressed the abilities, limitations, and advantages and disadvantages of different AM processes and materials in fabricating biologically viable materials. These processes are crucial for the efficient transfer of nutrients and oxygen to cells, facilitated by the design of porous structures with interconnected pores which are essential for biomedical uses.
Lastly, while natural biopolymers offer high biocompatibility, they often lack the strength needed for certain medical applications which can be mitigated through modifications. Synthetic biopolymers, like Polycaprolactone (PCL), present a valuable solution thanks to their superior biocompatibility and biodegradability. PCL, commonly used in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), offers excellent processing attributes and degrades into harmless substances that the human body can safely absorb. These comprehensive studies aimed to pioneer the further development and broad application of AM technology to design more efficient implants, medical devices, and applications in tissue engineering, ultimately guiding the medical field towards a future of tailor-made solutions.
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AM of Biomaterials-Design principles and their implementation