The unique capabilities of 2-photon polymerization (2PP) for 3D printing have allowed researchers in recent years to create a variety of micron and submicron photopolymerized structures, as well as extend the capabilities for fabrication of micro-components as well as MEMS [1]. Limitations of other additive manufacturing strategies include low resolution and limitations in the material choices available. Because 2PP is a nonlinear process where a near-infrared laser pulse is absorbed by a photosensitive material, polymerization will only occur in the area where the laser focal point is directed, this method does not require layer-by-layer deposition of the material. Additionally, by controlling the exposure dose, high resolution is achieved by polymerizing small volume pixels [2].
In this seminar, UpNano will present their NanoOne 3D printing technology and highlight several recent case studies where the machine has been used to extend what is currently achievable in high-resolution manufacturing. NanoOne is unique from other commercial 2PP systems because of the significantly higher speed, piezo precision stage and mesoscale build volume. This talk will feature recent work in bioprinting whereby 2PP was used to generate microvascular structures directly on-chip [2]. It will also highlight a study where 2PP was used to build high-purity conductive platinum nanostructures, which applications in mictroheathers, thermocouple sensors and Lab-on-a-Chip systems [3]. Recently published work in generating nanoliter perfusion microfluidic systems for commercial-scale [4] and creating 3D casting molds of fused silica for high-precision metal printing [5] will also be discussed.
REFERENCES
[1] Int J Adv Manuf Technol (2010) 48: 435 – 441.
[2] Biofabrication (2021) 13: 015016.
[3] Adv Mater (2021) 33: 2101992.
[4] Scientific Reports (2023) 13:562.
[5] Nature Communications (2022) 13:5048.