scholarly journals Design and characterization of a 3D-printed staggered herringbone mixer

BioTechniques ◽  
2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vedika J Shenoy ◽  
Chelsea ER Edwards ◽  
Matthew E Helgeson ◽  
Megan T Valentine
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
High Throughput ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Microfluidic Devices ◽  
Device Design ◽  
Replica Molding ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
And Performance ◽  
To Receive

3D printing holds potential as a faster, cheaper alternative compared with traditional photolithography for the fabrication of microfluidic devices by replica molding. However, the influence of printing resolution and quality on device design and performance has yet to receive detailed study. Here, we investigate the use of 3D-printed molds to create staggered herringbone mixers (SHMs) with feature sizes ranging from ∼100 to 500 μm. We provide guidelines for printer calibration to ensure accurate printing at these length scales and quantify the impacts of print variability on SHM performance. We show that SHMs produced by 3D printing generate well-mixed output streams across devices with variable heights and defects, demonstrating that 3D printing is suitable and advantageous for low-cost, high-throughput SHM manufacturing.

Facilitating Fluid Flow Through Carbon Nanotube Arrays Using 3D Printing

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Travis S. Emery ◽  
Anna Jensen ◽  
Koby Kubrin ◽  
Michael G. Schrlau
Keyword(s):  
Carbon Nanotube ◽  
3D Printing ◽  
Microfluidic Device ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Microfluidic Devices ◽  
Nanotube Arrays ◽  
Nanotube Array ◽  
Cnt Arrays ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
Flow Through

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a novel technology whose versatility allows it to be implemented in a multitude of applications. Common fabrication techniques implemented to create microfluidic devices, such as photolithography, wet etching, etc., can often times be time consuming, costly, and make it difficult to integrate external components. 3D printing provides a quick and low-cost technique that can be used to fabricate microfluidic devices in a range of intricate geometries. External components, such as nanoporous membranes, can additionally be easily integrated with minimal impact to the component. Here in, low-cost 3D printing has been implemented to create a microfluidic device to enhance understanding of flow through carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays manufactured for gene transfection applications. CNTs are an essential component of nanofluidic research due to their unique mechanical and physical properties. CNT arrays allow for parallel processing however, they are difficult to construct and highly prone to fracture. As a means of aiding in the nanotube arrays’ resilience to fracture and facilitating its integration into fluidic systems, a 3D printed microfluidic device has been constructed around these arrays. Doing so greatly enhances the robustness of the system and additionally allows for the nanotube array to be implemented for a variety of purposes. To broaden their range of application, the devices were designed to allow for multiple isolated inlet flows to the arrays. Utilizing this multiple inlet design permits distinct fluids to enter the array disjointedly. These 3D printed devices were in turn implemented to visualize flow through nanotube arrays. The focus of this report though, is on the design and fabrication of the 3D printed devices. SEM imaging of the completed device shows that the nanotube array remains intact after the printing process and the nanotubes, even those within close proximity to the printing material, remain unobstructed. Printing on top of the nanotube arrays displayed effective adhesion to the surface thus preventing leakage at these interfaces.

scholarly journals Small Hall Effect Thruster with 3D Printed Discharge Channel: Design and Thrust Measurements

Aerospace ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (8) ◽  
pp. 227
Author(s):  
Ethan P. Hopping ◽  
Wensheng Huang ◽  
Kunning G. Xu
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Hall Effect ◽  
Discharge Channel ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Hall Thrusters ◽  
Hall Effect Thruster ◽  
Sustained Operation ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
Multiple Materials ◽  
And Performance

This paper presents the design and performance of the UAH-78AM, a low-power small Hall effect thruster. The goal of this work is to assess the feasibility of using low-cost 3D printing to create functioning Hall thrusters, and study how 3D printing can expand the design space. The thruster features a 3D printed discharge channel with embedded propellant distributor. Multiple materials were tested including ABS, ULTEM, and glazed ceramic. Thrust measurements were obtained at the NASA Glenn Research Center. Measured thrust ranged from 17.2–30.4 mN over a discharge power of 280 W to 520 W with an anode ISP range of 870–1450 s. The thruster has a similar performance range to conventional thrusters at the same power levels. However, the polymer ABS and ULTEM materials have low temperature limits which made sustained operation difficult.

scholarly journals Microstructured Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor Based on Inkjet 3D Printing Using Photocurable Resins with Tailored Refractive Index

Polymers ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (15) ◽  
pp. 2518
Author(s):  
Nunzio Cennamo ◽  
Lorena Saitta ◽  
Claudio Tosto ◽  
Francesco Arcadio ◽  
Luigi Zeni ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Surface Plasmon Resonance ◽  
3D Printing ◽  
Surface Plasmon ◽  
Plasmon Resonance ◽  
Optical Sensor ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
3D Print ◽  
Spr Sensor ◽  
Resonance Sensor ◽  
3D Printed

In this work, a novel approach to realize a plasmonic sensor is presented. The proposed optical sensor device is designed, manufactured, and experimentally tested. Two photo-curable resins are used to 3D print a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor. Both numerical and experimental analyses are presented in the paper. The numerical and experimental results confirm that the 3D printed SPR sensor presents performances, in term of figure of merit (FOM), very similar to other SPR sensors made using plastic optical fibers (POFs). For the 3D printed sensor, the measured FOM is 13.6 versus 13.4 for the SPR-POF configuration. The cost analysis shows that the 3D printed SPR sensor can be manufactured at low cost (∼15 €) that is competitive with traditional sensors. The approach presented here allows to realize an innovative SPR sensor showing low-cost, 3D-printing manufacturing free design and the feasibility to be integrated with other optical devices on the same plastic planar support, thus opening undisclosed future for the optical sensor systems.

Additive technology applied to the realization of K-band microwave terminations: reproducibility improvement

2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 3-8
Author(s):  
Azar Maalouf ◽  
Ronan Gingat ◽  
Vincent Laur
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Frequency Band ◽  
Rectangular Waveguide ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Low Density ◽  
Support Material ◽  
Additive Technology ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
K Band

This study examines K-band rectangular waveguide terminations with three-dimensional (3D)-printed loads, and proposes an Asymmetrical Tapered Wedge topology. This geometry shows a good tradeoff between microwave performance and 3D-printing issues (printing directions and support material requirements), thus improving noticeably the reproducibility of the devices. The effect of the density of the 3D-printed load on the reflection parameter of the termination was investigated. Even for a low density, reflection level remained below −27.5 dB between 18 and 26.5 GHz. Reproducibility was demonstrated by the characterization of six loads that were 3D printed under the same conditions. Measurements demonstrate that a maximum reflection parameter level of −33.5 dB can be ensured over the whole frequency band without any post-machining of the 3D-printed devices.

3D Printable Resources for Engaging STEM Students in Laboratory Learning Activities and Outreach Programs: Inexpensive and User-Friendly Instrument Kits for Educators

MRS Advances ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 3 (49) ◽  
pp. 2937-2942 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lon A. Porter
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Mathematics Learning ◽  
Digital Design ◽  
Outreach Programs ◽  
Stem Students ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
Design Software ◽  
And Performance ◽  
And Mathematics ◽  
User Friendly

ABSTRACTContinued advances in digital design software and 3D printing methods enable innovative approaches in the development of new educational tools for laboratory-based STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) learning. The decreasing cost of 3D printing equipment and greater access provided by university fabrication centers afford unique opportunities for educators to transcend the limitations of conventional modes of student engagement with analytical instrumentation. This work shares successful efforts at Wabash College to integrate user-friendly and inexpensive 3D printed instruments kits into introductory STEM coursework. The laboratory kits and activities described provide new tools for engaging students in the exploration of instrument design and performance. These experiences provide effective ways to assist active-learners in discovering the technology and fundamental principles of analysis and deliberately confront the “black box” perception of instrumentation.

scholarly journals Accessing 3D Printed Vascular Phantoms for Procedural Simulation

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jasamine Coles-Black ◽  
Damien Bolton ◽  
Jason Chuen
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Endovascular Procedures ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
3D Models ◽  
Routine Care ◽  
Aortic Aneurysms ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Ct Angiogram ◽  
Abdominal Aortic ◽  
3D Printed

Introduction: 3D printed patient-specific vascular phantoms provide superior anatomical insights for simulating complex endovascular procedures. Currently, lack of exposure to the technology poses a barrier for adoption. We offer an accessible, low-cost guide to producing vascular anatomical models using routine CT angiography, open source software packages and a variety of 3D printing technologies.Methods: Although applicable to all vascular territories, we illustrate our methodology using Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAAs) due to the strong interest in this area. CT aortograms acquired as part of routine care were converted to representative patient-specific 3D models, and then printed using a variety of 3D printing technologies to assess their material suitability as aortic phantoms. Depending on the technology, phantoms cost $20–$1,000 and were produced in 12–48 h. This technique was used to generate hollow 3D printed thoracoabdominal aortas visible under fluoroscopy.Results: 3D printed AAA phantoms were a valuable addition to standard CT angiogram reconstructions in the simulation of complex cases, such as short or very angulated necks, or for positioning fenestrations in juxtarenal aneurysms. Hollow flexible models were particularly useful for device selection and in planning of fenestrated EVAR. In addition, these models have demonstrated utility other settings, such as patient education and engagement, and trainee and anatomical education. Further study is required to establish a material with optimal cost, haptic and fluoroscopic fidelity.Conclusion: We share our experiences and methodology for developing inexpensive 3D printed vascular phantoms which despite material limitations, successfully mimic the procedural challenges encountered during live endovascular surgery. As the technology continues to improve, 3D printed vascular phantoms have the potential to disrupt how endovascular procedures are planned and taught.

PLA conductive filament for 3D printed smart sensing applications

2018 ◽  
Vol 24 (4) ◽  
pp. 739-743 ◽  
Author(s):  
Simone Luigi Marasso ◽  
Matteo Cocuzza ◽  
Valentina Bertana ◽  
Francesco Perrucci ◽  
Alessio Tommasi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Temperature Sensor ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Conductive Polymer ◽  
Temperature Characteristic ◽  
Temperature Sensors ◽  
Electrical Performance ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Sensing Applications ◽  
3D Printed

Purpose This paper aims to present a study on a commercial conductive polylactic acid (PLA) filament and its potential application in a three-dimensional (3D) printed smart cap embedding a resistive temperature sensor made of this material. The final aim of this study is to add a fundamental block to the electrical characterization of printed conductive polymers, which are promising to mimic the electrical performance of metals and semiconductors. The studied PLA filament demonstrates not only to be suitable for a simple 3D printed concept but also to show peculiar characteristics that can be exploited to fabricate freeform low-cost temperature sensors. Design/methodology/approach The first part is focused on the conductive properties of the PLA filament and its temperature dependency. After obtaining a resistance temperature characteristic of this material, the same was used to fabricate a part of a 3D printed smart cap. Findings An approach to the characterization of the 3D printed conductive polymer has been presented. The major results are related to the definition of resistance vs temperature characteristic of the material. This model was then exploited to design a temperature sensor embedded in a 3D printed smart cap. Practical implications This study demonstrates that commercial conductive PLA filaments can be suitable materials for 3D printed low-cost temperature sensors or constitutive parts of a 3D printed smart object. Originality/value The paper clearly demonstrates that a new generation of 3D printed smart objects can already be obtained using low-cost commercial materials.

High-Throughput Characterization of Composition and Performance of Titanium Alloys Based on Nanoindentation Technology and EPMA

2021 ◽  
Vol 871 ◽  
pp. 20-26
Author(s):  
Yu Gao ◽  
Hong Yu ◽  
Yu Zhou ◽  
Xin Jie Zhu ◽  
Qun Bo Fan
Keyword(s):  
Titanium Alloy ◽  
High Throughput ◽  
Alloy Composition ◽  
Analysis Method ◽  
Experimental Scheme ◽  
Test Efficiency ◽  
And Performance ◽  
High Throughput Experiments ◽  
The Relationship

Traditional high-throughput experiments increase the test efficiency by designing component gradient tests and other methods. This article intends to improve the traditional high-throughput experiments and proposes an experimental scheme combining nanoindentation technology and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). Based on a new Ti-Mo-Al-Zr-Cr-Sn alloy, micro-region composition and corresponding performance at multiple indentations are directly characterized, including a series of different alloy compositions composed of 8 elements such as Mo, Al and the corresponding hardness (H) and elastic modulus (E). Then the principal analysis method in statistics, the theory of molybdenum equivalent and aluminum equivalent are used to process the obtained data, and a series of atlases such as "E-H-component characteristic parameters" and "E-H-alloy equivalents" are constructed, which has achieved high-throughput characterization of the relationship between composition and performance of titanium alloy. Related work can not only quickly determine the alloy composition range corresponding to high E and high H values, but also provide guidance for further optimization of titanium alloy composition design.

scholarly journals Novel 3D-Printed MEMS Magnetometer with Optical Detection

Proceedings ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 2 (13) ◽  
pp. 783 ◽  
Author(s):  
Matthias Kahr ◽  
Wilfried Hortschitz ◽  
Harald Steiner ◽  
Michael Stifter ◽  
Andreas Kainz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Product Development ◽  
Rapid Prototyping ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
High Accuracy ◽  
Structural Performance ◽  
Sensitivity Measurement ◽  
Optical Readout ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
Working Principle

This paper reports a novel 3D printed MEMS magnetometer with optical readout, which demonstrates the advantages of 3D printing technology in terms of rapid prototyping. Low-cost and fast product development cycles favour 3D printing as an effective tool. Sensitivity measurement with such devices indicate high accuracy and good structural performance, considering material and technological uncertainties. This paper is focusing on the novelty of the rapid, 3D-printing prototyping approach and verification of the working principle for printed MEMS magnetometers.

An Initial Effort to Create a Superficial Femoral Artery Ultrasound Phantom Using 3-Dimensional Printing

2020 ◽  
Vol 44 (2) ◽  
pp. 69-73
Author(s):  
Paul D. Bishop ◽  
Thomas Fultz ◽  
Lisa Smith ◽  
Ryan S. Klatte ◽  
Francis Loth ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Femoral Artery ◽  
Superficial Femoral Artery ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Duplex Ultrasound ◽  
3D Print ◽  
Stl File ◽  
Calcified Plaque ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
Artery Geometry

Three-dimensional (3D) printing of anatomical structures has yielded valuable models for simulation, education, and surgical planning applications. Applications for 3D printing have continued to expand to include some ultrasound applications. The goal of this effort was to evaluate if a 3D printed model of a superficial femoral artery (SFA) would have realistic ultrasound characteristics. A computed tomography scan was 3D reconstructed and segmented using TeraRecon Aquarius Intuition software (TeraRecon, Foster City, California) to obtain an atherosclerotic SFA geometry. Both the lumen geometry and calcified plaque geometry of the SFA were exported as a stereolithographic (STL) file. The STL file was printed with An Object350 Connex 3D System using 2 different materials selected based on published elastic modulus data. VeroWhite was selected for the calcified plaque and TangoPlus Clear was selected for the artery wall. After printing, the SFA model was imaged in a water bath with a Phillips IU22 duplex ultrasound console and L12-9 ultrasound probe. Ultrasound imaging of the SFA model yielded grayscale views of artery geometry. Lumen geometry of the SFA model was similar to the actual artery geometry. Ultrasound was able to discern between the 3D print materials and visualize regions with stenosis. Suboptimal ultrasound parameters of echogenicity and wave velocity noted to differ from biological tissue. Total 3D print material cost was estimated at below $20. Although the 3D printed model did not have fully accurate ultrasound characteristics, it still provided realistic imaging. With further research, 3D printed models may offer a low-cost alternative for ultrasound phantoms.

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