3D printing of physically crosslinked hydrogels for anatomical models
Innovative 3D printing technology using triblock copolymer hydrogels to create anatomical models with skin-like properties. Ideal for medical training and research, offering tunable mechanical characteristics through polymer synthesis and hydration.
Overview
This solution leverages innovative 3D printing technology to create anatomical models using physically crosslinked hydrogels synthesized from triblock copolymers. These hydrogels are designed to mimic the mechanical properties of skin and tissues, making them ideal for medical training and research. By utilizing a combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymers, we achieve self-assembly into micelles, creating a robust network upon hydration.
Technical specifications
- Triblock copolymer synthesis: Utilizes ABA triblock copolymers with tunable properties by altering polymer block identities and chain lengths.
- 3D printing compatibility: Processed into filament suitable for commercial 3D printing systems.
- Hydration process: Rapid hydration in water forms a physically crosslinked network.
- Model creation: Capable of developing models from CT and MRI scans to print anatomically accurate structures.
- Material flexibility: Allows for printing with multiple materials before hydration, achieving complex, realistic anatomical models.
Technology readiness level
The technology stands at TRL 3, indicating that active research and development are underway. The project expects to achieve further validation and refinement in collaboration with university research groups, focusing on polymer synthesis, mechanical analysis, and 3D model development over the next 1 to 1.5 years.
About Penn State University
Penn State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university with a large multi‑campus footprint across Pennsylvania. Industry engages through a research and technology park adjacent to the flagship campus that houses corporate R&D, co‑located labs, and flexible collaboration space, as well as a statewide extension network that enables field testing, demonstration, and workforce reach. Integration with a major hospital system supports clinical translation, and an applied research laboratory fosters mission‑driven partnerships with government and industry sponsors. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA, DoD, and NASA. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation to accelerate commercialization.
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