Lignin/PBS Filaments for 3D Fused Deposition Modeling of Medical Orthoses

There is a technological need for materials with improved functionalities to propel new biomedical applications. Some of the outstanding challenges could be solved using three dimensional (3D) printing. However, there is a pressing need for new generation of biomaterials that have unique properties. Combining nanomaterials with bio-based and synthetic polymers could yield biomaterials with improved properties. We developed filaments using bio-based waste polymer (lignin) and synthetic polymer (polybutylene succinate (PBS)). Next we coated these scaffolds that could provide antioxidant and antifouling properties while improving the rheological and physical properties of the composites filaments and easy of extrusion and 3D printing. Taken together these nanocoated filaments could propel several biomedical applications including aiding design of medical orthoses and bracing materials.