Mechano-Responsive Protein-Polymer Networks for Sustainable Additive Manufacturing

Bio-sourced and biodegradable polymers for additive manufacturing could enable the rapid fabrication of parts for a broad spectrum of applications ranging from healthcare to aerospace. However, a limited number of these materials are suitable for vat photopolymerization processes. Herein, we report a process to fabricate protein-based constructs using commercially available vat photopolymerization printers. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) is a single-chain nanoparticle that can be chemically derivatized with acrylate and methacrylate functionalities. Aqueous resins were formulated from these materials to produce complex 3D geometrical constructs with a resolution comparable to commercial resins. While BSA is often used in cell culture protocols and diagnostic assays, we demonstrate that BSA can serve as junctions within polymer networks to afford stiff hydrogels and bioplastics with unique physical properties. Protein-based shape-memory objects and engineered living materials were 3D printed and will be highlighted as opportunities for future applications.