Topic: Help us build the first antibacterial filament! WE NEED YOUR ADVICE!
Hi, my name is Jaskarn and i am a undergrad at UBC in microbiology and computer science doing my research project into the use of chitin/sugar composite filaments in 3d printing. Why chitin composites? Chitin is unique in the sense that it allows water and glucose to pass through its horizontal layered structure, but can withstand considerable stress, is biodegradable, renewable-ish (can be argued against) and best of all it is a proven BIOSTATIC. Note biostatic means inhibits growth of bacteria not kills them. Despite seeming like the holygrail of 3D printing it has some serious problems- it has low miscibility, a wierd heating curve and redundant lay structure.
We have hypothesized a method to make a 45:15:40 mixture of chitin/cellulose to PLA mixture, which can be made into filaments through a extruder that can be used in 3D printers found on the market. The whole point of doing so is so doctors can 3D print custom casts for patients in the near future that are cost effective, custom and antibacterial (chitin is antibacterial, biodegradeable, cheapish and safe for consumption). Since we are new to this (new as in we havent printed anything other than small boxes before!) we need your help.
Do you guys want to help us make a new biodegradable antibacterial filament? This filament could save lives in medicine or could be used to make objects like toys for kids! If you want to help us, know anything about filaments, 3d scanning or 3d printing i look forward to hearing from you! If you are just interested in what we wnat to do, we would love to hear from you too!
Ps. If you have an extra extruder or know how to get one for cheap, first of all- I love you, and please post! AND we know this more of a "project' topic but this topic also applies---> Forgive us good sirs and madams!