3D printing of biomaterials for biomedical applications: a review

The field of 3D (three-dimensional) Printing, commonly referred to as additive manufacturing, has revolutionized the processing of biomaterials by making it feasible to construct intricate structures with high resolution and precision. A comprehensive variety of biomaterials, including polymers, hydrogels, ceramics, composites and metals, have been produced via 3D Printing. This review article provides an overview of the critical elements of 3D printing techniques for developing and fabricating biomaterials for various biomedical applications. The article delves into the positive aspects, challenges, and prospective future directions of various 3D printing techniques, including inkjet printing, stereolithography, and fused deposition modelling, to manufacture biomaterials for use in biomedical engineering. Furthermore, it also discusses the circular economy of biomaterials and the socio-economic factors associated with 3D Printing. The review provides valuable information and insights for researchers, engineers, clinicians, and policymakers interested in or involved in the 3D printing of biomaterials for biomedical applications. We envision that 3D-printed products from biomaterials will profoundly impact the medical field in the near future.