Feature

Intertronics supports The University of Sheffield with 3D-printed bioelectronics research

When the Department of Automatic Control and Systems Engineering (ACSE) at the University of Sheffield was looking for a way to 3D print bioelectronic sensors accurately, it reached out to Intertronics for support.

03/11/2022 11:22:08

Intertronics supplied mixing and dispensing equipment to improve the consistency and quality of the mix, achieve better printing definition, and reduce blockages in the nozzle of the 3D printer.

In order to improve the way recovery from injury and the progression of neurological/musculoskeletal conditions are monitored, the ACSE team is developing a diagnostic glove that includes several flexible bioelectronic sensors. The sensors are formed from elastomers mixed with various conductive nano- or micro-particle compounds, like graphite, platinum and silver, which are 3D printed onto the glove’s material.

To dispense tiny amounts of material, the ACSE team uses an extrusion-based 3D printer. However, during dispensing, particle aggregates were forming and particle distribution was being altered, causing material to clog in the nozzle.

Read the full article in DPA's November issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.