Brown University engineers have developed a groundbreaking 3D printing technology that allows for the creation of biomaterials capable of "degrading on demand." This innovation opens up new possibilities in the field of microfluidics and dynamic cell cultures. The material's ability to break down is triggered by specific chemical reactions, offering precise control over its lifespan. To achieve this, researchers employed stereolithography (SLA), a technique known for its precision, to fabricate structures with reversible ionic bonds—an approach that had never been used before in SLA 3D printing.
To develop the material, the team used alginate, a natural polymer derived from seaweed, which can form crosslinks through ions. By varying the types of ionic salts—such as magnesium, barium, and calcium—they were able to create 3D printed objects with different stiffness levels, which directly affects how quickly the structure degrades.
"The idea is that when the ions are removed, the polymer connections break," explained the researchers. "By using a chelating agent that binds all the ions, we can effectively remove them, allowing the structure to dissolve when needed."
This technology has multiple potential applications. One key use is in creating microfluidic devices on a chip. Researchers can print a temporary alginate structure to form the channels and then encase it with a permanent biomaterial. Once the alginate dissolves, a clean, hollow channel is left behind—no cutting or assembly required.
Additionally, the method can be used to create dynamic environments for live cell experiments. For example, an alginate barrier can be surrounded by human breast cells. When the barrier dissolves, the cells move in a controlled way, which could aid in cancer research and the development of artificial tissues and organs.
"Imagine using this technique to create blood vessel-like channels in artificial tissue," said the team. "We can print the vasculature with alginate and then dissolve it using the right salt solution."
The researchers are now working to refine the process, aiming to better control the stiffness, strength, and degradation rate of the printed structures. Their findings were recently published in *Lab on a Chip*, marking an important step forward in the field of biodegradable 3D printing.
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