Silicone 3D printing now available at library

Harrell Health Sciences Library recently acquired a paste extruder for 3D printing.

The library has been 3D printing using plastics, such as PLA, TPU, PETT and nylon. With the addition of the Discov3ry Paste Extruder (a device used to print paste materials such as Nutella, frosting and chocolate), now the library can also print in silicone.

The Discov3ry operates using syringes that can easily switch between silicone, conductive materials and clay. The extruder then pushes the material to a nozzle attached to an Ultimaker 2+, which directs where it will drop. Once completed, the print will need to cure before being handled. For silicone, curing time is typically about 24 hours.

This addition has allowed for the printing of much more flexible objects, and, with more testing, will allow the library to print models of pieces of anatomy with lifelike densities and textures.

Currently, several silicone prints have been completed in the Technology Sandbox, including anatomical structures, and the library is looking for faculty, staff, trainees and students to partner with.

Those with something in mind to test-print in silicone, or those interested in exploring the technology, should contact librarytech@pennstatehealth.psu.edu.

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