ao8b00219_si_001.pdf (5.32 MB)
Chemically Treated 3D Printed Polymer Scaffolds for Biomineral Formation
journal contribution
posted on 2018-04-19, 08:14 authored by Richard
J. Jackson, P. Stephen Patrick, Kristopher Page, Michael J. Powell, Mark F. Lythgoe, Mark A. Miodownik, Ivan P. Parkin, Claire J. Carmalt, Tammy L. Kalber, Joseph C. BearWe present the synthesis of nylon-12
scaffolds by 3D printing and
demonstrate their versatility as matrices for cell growth, differentiation,
and biomineral formation. We demonstrate that the porous nature of
the printed parts makes them ideal for the direct incorporation of
preformed nanomaterials or material precursors, leading to nanocomposites
with very different properties and environments for cell growth. Additives
such as those derived from sources such as tetraethyl orthosilicate
applied at a low temperature promote successful cell growth, due partly
to the high surface area of the porous matrix. The incorporation of
presynthesized iron oxide nanoparticles led to a material that showed
rapid heating in response to an applied ac magnetic field, an excellent
property for use in gene expression and, with further improvement,
chemical-free sterilization. These methods also avoid changing polymer
feedstocks and contaminating or even damaging commonly used selective
laser sintering printers. The chemically treated 3D printed matrices
presented herein have great potential for use in addressing current
issues surrounding bone grafting, implants, and skeletal repair, and
a wide variety of possible incorporated material combinations could
impact many other areas.