Scientists from MIT and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras created a small, 3D-printed bioreactor, which they used to grow brain organoids.
Research led by the University of South Florida shows that 3D-printed nasal swabs work just as well as the standard swabs used to test for Covid-19. Swabs can be 3D printed for less than half the cost of commercial swabs.
Instructors at the University of South Australia developed 3D-printed feet with realistic ulcers to teach podiatry students to spot and treat dangerous conditions like diabetic foot disease.
Researchers in Singapore created a new type of food-based “ink” for 3D printers that keeps nutrients intact. They say it could make pureed food more palatable for hospital patients — and it even tastes good.
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Food made with 3D printers could also incorporate food scraps — that would otherwise go to waste — or insects, which may be more palatable in a less recognizable form.
Scientists from James Cook University 3D printed solid plastic fuel grains to be used in hybrid rocket engines, which could make the fuel easier to produce.
NASA’s own tests suggest rocket parts could also be 3D printed and used in place of traditionally manufactured parts.
Scientists at Newcastle University created the first 3D-printed cornea in 2018. Donated corneas are scarce and scientists are hoping to replace current synthetic corneas, which aren’t as clear as real ones.
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In 2013, the first 3D-printed gun — called the Liberator — spurred debate over whether plans for firearms should be legal.
Critics today highlight the danger of making guns accessible without a background check. Advocates claim they have a right to distribute plans for guns and argue they’re too impractical to pose a danger.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge created 3D-printed fibers thinner than a human hair. These can be used to make lightweight respiratory sensors.
Devices made with these fibers could monitor the wearer’s breath for medical tests or help create more effective face masks by testing for leaks.
Researchers from Virginia Tech developed a method of integrating electronic sensors into prosthetics as they’re being printed, which could make customized prosthetics with electronic controls much more affordable.
Prosthetics have even been 3D printed for animals. In 2018, students at the University of Minnesota 3D printed a new “exoshell” for a sea turtle with an injured shell.
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