Hello!
I am currently working on a project that involves 3D printing in the context of medical devices. So here's my question: are there any 3D printing materials that are both flexible and biocompatible?
Thanks in advance for any answers!
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Hello!
I am currently working on a project that involves 3D printing in the context of medical devices. So here's my question: are there any 3D printing materials that are both flexible and biocompatible?
Thanks in advance for any answers!
Hyrel is working on a silicone filament coming in various grades. It needs post-curing after printing.
Contact them for biocompatibility - http://www.hyrel3d.com/materials/
It will need to be carefully researched and in line with all governmental regulations.
It will be interesting to research its suitability for small joint replacement.
Stratasys does a lot in medical prototyping / 3d printing, they will have biocompatible materials as well.
We print with PEEK, PCL and PU, all of which are US FDA approved for internal medical applications, but none of these is especially flexible.
There are probably approved silicones which which we can print, but we haven't tried any specifically approved for internal applications.
Hi
Some of this can be a bit application dependent. A little more information on what you are trying to do might be helpful.
Bob
Along that line, does anyone have experience 3D printing running shoes or soles?
I have used FlexPLA but it does not seem to be durable and flexible enough and does not print very well either.
I am wondering if there is a flexible SLA resin available that works for this application, or a TPU or other powder for SLS as used by Materialise.
You might try a service using an Objet polyjet machine: http://www.stratasys.com/3d-printers...jet-technology
These machines can print flexible material with multiple durometers in the same print. It has been used for shoe soles (if price is no objet...) Not sure about biocompatibility, though.