Biofabrication of Hybrid Scaffolds: 3D Printing Smarter Structures
Most scaffolds used in bioprinting today are made up of a single material. In recent years, mixtures of materials within scaffolds have become quite common to achieve mechanical or clinical objectives. For example, embedding ceramic particles within a thermoplastic material can deliver a compromise between the mechanical and biological properties of both materials. Another common method is applying coatings to the surface of a scaffold, to increase cell adhesion or add drug-releasing features. While these types of scaffolds may contain different materials, they are still considered “regular” scaffolds.
Understanding New Hybrid Structures
But now, a new area of biofabrication is emerging for hybrid scaffolds, in which strategic sections of scaffolds are 3D printed in different materials. This paper will cover the benefits of different types of hybrid scaffolds, and how these scaffolds are constructed using the EnvisionTEC 3D-Bioplotter.
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