3D Printable Bioactive Glass/Polymer Composite
Project ID: D2018-16 Background Popularity of 3D printing has grown exponentially in the last decade, leading to endless applications of rapid prototyping and production of parts in a variety of fields such as aerospace and medicine. In any application, it is critical that the appropriate printing material is selected to ensure proper function and durability of the printed parts. Filaments that are most commonly used in fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing are made from polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). However, these materials are generally considered to have poor mechanical properties and may easily harbor harmful microbes. There is, therefore, the need for continuous improvement in 3D printing filaments. Invention DescriptionResearchers at the University of Toledo, led by Dr. Aisling Coughlan, have developed a 3D printable filament from a composite material consisting of a polymer reinforced with a bioactive agent, which can generate 3D-printed objects with both functionality and increased mechanical integrity. Applications• The composite filament material can be used in wide a variety of FDM 3D printing applications and possesses distinct advantages for hobby, educational, clinical and other applications due to its bioactive nature and improved mechanical properties Advantages• This filament allows for the 3D printing of antibacterial objects for use in a variety of applications• The filament generated is compatible with standard FDM 3D printers• Reinforcement with glass results in filament with superior mechanical properties• The filament can be made with a variety of polymer bases, pigments and additives• The filament can be made with current conventional extruder technology without the need for additional coating• The filament has potential for everyday hobby and clinical use IP Status: Patent Pending
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