An open-source and low-cost dual-extruder 3D printer for macroscale biotic materials
Name
40964_2025_Article_1383.pdf
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1.1 MB
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Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
f1c3c6db6eebc274b3332309422a1adc
Author(s)
de Alva, Jesse P.
Buehler, Markus
Date Issued
October 22, 2025
Journal
Progress in Additive Manufacturing
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Citation
de Alva, J., Buehler, M. An open-source and low-cost dual-extruder 3D printer for macroscale biotic materials. Prog Addit Manuf (2025).
Version
Final published version
Abstract
This work presents the design and fabrication of a novel, dual-extruder biotic 3D printer, tailored for precise deposition of natural biomaterials such as pectin, chitosan, and cellulose. Moving beyond the limitations of traditional thermoplastic extrusion which relies on non-renewable plastics and produces significant waste, this printer utilizes a syringe-based mechanical extruder to deposit viscous biotic material hydrogels. The integration of a dual-extruder system enables the creation of multi-material prints, offering new possibilities for sustainable and biotic manufacturing. Designed with accessibility and versatility in mind, the system features user-friendly operation suitable for non-experts with open-source hardware and software. By providing a robust, customizable, and open-source platform, this work aims to empower researchers, educators, and innovators to advance biomaterials research and expand the reach of sustainable additive manufacturing. The printer fosters a collaborative community and lays the groundwork for further exploration of biological designs and materials.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Materials Science and Engineering
Terms of Use
Creative Commons Attribution
Persistent DSpace Link
DOI of Published Version
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40964-025-01383-z
