Have you ever struggled to find the perfect storage container for your kitchen? Or struggled to replace a missing part on small appliances? With advancements in 3D printing, these challenges are becoming a thing of the past. 3D printing is a versatile technology that constructs three-dimensional objects by layering materials, often using plastics or light-curable resins. This approach is increasingly valuable in industries that require complex components, such as medical devices, automotive manufacturing, aerospace, and accessibility products.

Among the various techniques, light-based 3D printing stands out for its ability to create micro- and nanoscale structures with exceptional resolution and precision using light activated inks. However, the conventional inks used for this method often rely on petrochemicals, which are significantly harmful for the environment. To address this, the industry is shifting toward biomass-derived ink that are more sustainable and biocompatible because they are generally derived from land crops. 

A recent study from Heidelberg University shows that microalgae can be used as “biofactories” to produce high-resolution 3D printing materials. Two strains of algae, Odontella aurita and Tetraselmis striata, were selected for their high triglyceride content and rapid growth rates, making them more efficient biomass sources compared to traditional land crops. The triglycerides found in the two strains differ in terms of type and quantity, and are critical for determining the final yield and quality of the ink. The researchers extracted and chemically modified these triglycerides to create inks capable of printing intricate 3D structures. Through detailed studies, the researchers showcased the versatility of these microalgae-derived inks.

This approach is not only environmentally friendly—since microalgae harvested from marine environments captures atmospheric carbon—but also provides a highly efficient biomass without competing for arable land. By utilizing microalgae-derived inks with natural biocompatibility, the study paves the way for safer, non-toxic applications in biomedical fields, such as implants and 3D cell scaffolds. Additionally, the use of algae for natural photoreactive agents eliminates the need for synthetic light activated inks, further advancing light-based 3D printing technology. As the demand for greener alternatives grows, this research underscores the potential of microalgae to revolutionize the 3D printing industry and reduce its environmental impact.

This study was led by researchers at Heidelberg University, Germany under the guidance of Eva Blasco.

Managing Correspondent: Gurminder K. Paink 

Press article: 3D printing goes “green” with microalgae ink (Advanced Science)

Original Journal Article: Printing Green: Microalgae-Based Materials for 3D Printing with Light (Advanced Materials) 

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