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The Future of 3D Printing and Healthcare

When it comes to 3D printing, the sky is the limit. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, applications can be as far reaching as  airplane  and  automobile parts  to medical devices and even anatomically correct, biocompatible models. Although 3D printing technology is developing at a rapid pace, the technology itself is not new. It emerged in  the 1980s  as a means of creating rapid prototypes. In recent years the applications for 3D printed models have evolved with the available hardware, software, and printable materials. Evolving technology, paired with the creative and innovative minds of scientists, engineers, and physicians, has been the launching pad for developments within 3D printing technology specific to healthcare. One way 3D printing technology is poised to create better patient outcomes is in creating an anatomically and  patient-specific models  to aid in surgery and medical procedures. With the capability to 3D ...
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Soy Polymers Developed for Diapers

baby
Disposable baby diapers are getting greener — in a good way.
Researchers at Battelle Memorial Institute in Ohio have developed soy-based polymers that could replace up to one-third of the petroleum-based polymers that soak up liquids in disposable diapers and other personal-care products.
Diapers and other products can mop up liquids because they contain superabsorbent polymers, which are also known as hydrogels. These materials can lock hundreds of times their weight in liquid and form a gel that won’t leak. Chemically, these materials are acrylic acids made from petroleum starting materials.
The Battelle researchers are aiming to create more environmentally-friendly polymers with materials derived from soy meal, which is usually used as animal feed. They believe the price of the soy-based hydrogels will be comparable to oil-based ones, according to a press release from Battelle.
Frank Esposito, a senior reporter for Plastics News, writes:
The market for super-absorbent polymers (SAPs) is estimated at more than three billion pounds per year, with diapers and other personal care items making up well over half of demand.
Battelle researchers also say that the hydrogels could be used in agriculture to help soil and seeds retain moisture in dry climates or during periods of drought.
The next step for the new hydrogels is commercialization. Esposito adds:
Earlier this year, Battelle licensed technology to make soybean-based polyols to agricultural firm Emery OleoChemicals of Cincinnati [Ohio]. Emery has begun sampling the products to customers for use in flexible and rigid foams and other markets, and hopes to have the polyols in commercial production by the end of the year.

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The Future of 3D Printing and Healthcare

When it comes to 3D printing, the sky is the limit. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, applications can be as far reaching as  airplane  and  automobile parts  to medical devices and even anatomically correct, biocompatible models. Although 3D printing technology is developing at a rapid pace, the technology itself is not new. It emerged in  the 1980s  as a means of creating rapid prototypes. In recent years the applications for 3D printed models have evolved with the available hardware, software, and printable materials. Evolving technology, paired with the creative and innovative minds of scientists, engineers, and physicians, has been the launching pad for developments within 3D printing technology specific to healthcare. One way 3D printing technology is poised to create better patient outcomes is in creating an anatomically and  patient-specific models  to aid in surgery and medical procedures. With the capability to 3D ...
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Virginia Tech Students Create Foldable Bike Helmets

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