CERTH has proceeded to another great achievement within the context of PestNu project!
The article, “Exploration of Methodologies for Developing Antimicrobial Fused Filament Fabrication Parts.” has been published in the “Materials” Journal, by MDPI!
The authors of the article are: S. Pemas, E. Xanthopoulou, Z. Terzopoulou, G. Konstantopoulos, D. N. Bikiaris, C. Kottaridi, D. Tzovaras, E. M. Pechlivani., and its respective DOI is the following: https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16216937
The abstract and the keywords of the publication can be found below.
Abstract
Composite 3D printing filaments integrating antimicrobial nanoparticles offer inherent microbial resistance, mitigating contamination and infections. Developing antimicrobial 3D-printed plastics is crucial for tailoring medical solutions, such as implants, and cutting costs when compared with metal options. Furthermore, hospital sustainability can be enhanced via on-demand 3D printing of medical tools. A PLA-based filament incorporating 5% TiO2 nanoparticles and 2% Joncryl as a chain extender was formulated to offer antimicrobial properties. Comparative analysis encompassed PLA 2% Joncryl filament and a TiO2 coating for 3D-printed specimens, evaluating mechanical and thermal properties, as well as wettability and antimicrobial characteristics. The antibacterial capability of the filaments was explored after 3D printing against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus, ATCC 25923), as well as Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli, ATCC 25922), and the filaments with 5 wt.% embedded TiO2 were found to reduce the viability of both bacteria. This research aims to provide the optimal approach for antimicrobial and medical 3D printing outcomes.
Keywords: additive manufacturing (AM); 3D printing; fused filament fabrication (FFF); filament; antimicrobial properties; Escherichia coli; Staphylococcus aureus; titanium dioxide (TiO2); poly(lactic acid) (PLA); mechanical properties
You can reach the full article following this link: https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1944/16/21/6937