Post-3D printing modification for improved biomedical applications

• Main Author: Zhang, Yi
• Other Authors: School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: 2018
• Subjects: 3D Printing; Bioprinting; DRNTU::Engineering::Mechanical engineering
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/89960; http://hdl.handle.net/10220/47175
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

3D printing is a technology well-suited for biomedical applications due to its ability to create highly complex and arbitrary structures from personalized designs with a fast turnaround. However, due to a limited selection of 3D-printable materials, the biofunctionality of many 3D-printed components has not been paid enough attention. In this perspective, we point out that post-3D printing modification is the solution that could close the gap between 3D printing technology and desired biomedical functions. We identify architectural reconfiguration and surface functionalization as the two main post-3D printing modification processes and discuss potential techniques for post-3D printing modification to achieve desired biofunctionality.