3D Printing of Bio-Inspired Amorphous Calcium Carbonate Composites

Composites in nature are often formed in the course of biomineralization. These biocomposites are usually produced via an amorphous precursor such as amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC), demonstrating a layered structure. These layered composites have inspired us to form 3D-printed layered structures via robocasting, following the mineralized tissues of <i>Ophiomastix wendtii</i> and <i>Odontodactylus scyllarus</i>. We compared various bio-degradable organic matrices and studied their mechanical properties. Characterized and proved the extended stabilization of the ACC. We investigated the 3D-printed structures' mechanical properties to weigh the benefits an amorphous precursor may offer in the 3D printing processes of ceramic materials. The fracture interface presented bulk behavior with no distinct layering, resembling the formation of mineral single crystalline tissue in nature and overcoming one of the most critical challenges in 3D printing, namely the inter-layer interfaces. This research presents a bio-inspired, low-temperature route to form layered structures. By fusing the layers following low-temperature sintering, a composite structure composed of stabilized ACC integrated with biodegradable, environmentally friendly matrices can be obtained.