Imagine using a high-tech laser, like the ones used to make computer chips, but instead of silicon, it uses natural proteins to build medical parts. This technology lets us 'draw' complex 3D shapes with light that the body accepts more easily. It turns a liquid made of amino acids into a solid, biocompatible structure in seconds.
Current medical implant materials often lack the structural resolution needed for advanced tissue compatibility and are frequently non-degradable, creating long-term health and environmental issues.
A set of high-purity light-sensitive initiators and photocurable poly(amino acid) resins capable of 99% conversion in one minute.
If you are an implant manufacturer dealing with poor tissue compatibility and low structural resolution — this project developed light-sensitive poly(amino acid) materials that allow for high-precision 2D and 3D structuring. This results in safer devices that are more compatible with the human body.
If you are a drug discovery lab dealing with inaccurate lung disease models — this project developed spheroid arrays and micropatterned cell surface models. These tools allow for more precise drug testing and disease modelling.
If you are a green electronics producer dealing with non-degradable plastic waste — this project developed bio-inspired sustainable alternatives using amino acids. This enables the creation of eco-friendly electronics that support the Green Deal.
Based on available project data, specific pricing or cost-per-unit information is not provided.
The project has achieved the production of light-sensitive initiators in sufficient quantity and high purity, though further integration with existing printing technologies is still needed.
Based on available project data, specific licensing terms or patent filings are not detailed, though the consortium includes innovation management expertise.
In one instance, the project achieved 99% conversion of the material in just one minute using light-driven formation.
The project has tested resins in 2D and 3D printing, but final results indicate that further research is required to ensure seamless integration with existing printing technologies.
The project is led by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and features a multidisciplinary team of 8 partners across 6 countries. With a 25% industry ratio (including 2 SMEs), the group balances academic research from 4 universities and 2 research institutes with commercial application expertise in innovation management and clinical practice.
Contact the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland regarding the POLINA project
Contact SciTransfer for a detailed technology scouting report on bio-resins.
