An overview of the suitability of hydrogel-forming polymers for extrusion-based 3D-printing

Authors

Damian M. Kirchmajer, University of WollongongFollow
Robert A. Gorkin III, University of WollongongFollow
Marc in het Panhuis, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

100773

Publication Details

Kirchmajer, D. M., Gorkin III, R. & in het Panhuis, M. (2015). An overview of the suitability of hydrogel-forming polymers for extrusion-based 3D-printing. Journal of Materials Chemistry B, 3 (20), 4105-4117.

Abstract

This review evaluates hydrogel-forming polymers that are suitable for soft tissue engineering with a focus on materials that can be fabricated using additive manufacturing (3D-printing). An overview of the specific material requirements for hydrogel-based tissue engineering constructs is presented. This is followed by an explanation of the various hydrogel-forming polymer classes that includes a detailed examination of material properties that are critical for extrusion printing. Specifically, mechanisms for hydrogel formation, degradation, and biological response, activity and compatibility are explored. A discussion of extrusion printing strategies for printable hydrogel-forming polymers is then presented in conjunction with a list of considerations to guide future tissue engineering developments.

Grant Number

ARC/CE0561616