Karoline Teichmann

Master Studentin

Optimization of 3D bioplotted craniofacial-bone implants based on hydrogel composites

Betreuer: Vera Bednarzig, Dr. Rainer Detsch, Prof. Dr. Aldo R. Boccaccini

Additive manufacturing techniques can be used to generate scaffolds for the replacement and repair of damaged or diseased human tissue and organs. To replace it perfectly, it is important that the implant achieves similar properties to those of the natural tissue [1] [2]. The task of this thesis is to evaluate a 3D-bioplotted craniofacial-bone implant, that consists of different layers with individual composition, structure and properties. The main component of the implant is the hydrogel alginate and derived composites. The understanding of the chemical, physical and mechanical properties of the materials is important to create a printable gel that stays in its printed shape also after crosslinking. The characterization of these properties will be a fundamental part of this Master thesis.

[1] Mehrban, N., Teoh, G. Z., & Birchall, M. A. (2016). 3D bioprinting for tissue engineering: Stem cells in hydrogels. International Journal of Bioprinting, 2(0).

[2] Detsch, R., Sarker, B., Zehnder, T., Frank, G., & Boccaccini, A. R. (2015). Advanced alginate-based hydrogels. Materials Today, 18(10), 590–591.