3D Printed Bionic Nanomaterials

Abstract

The ability to three-dimensionally interweave biology with nanomaterials could enable the creation of bionic devices possessing unique geometries, properties, and functionalities. The development of methods for interfacing high performance devices with biology could yield breakthroughs in regenerative medicine, smart prosthetics, and human-machine interfaces. Yet, most high quality inorganic materials: 1) are two dimensional, 2) are hard and brittle, and 3) require high crystallization temperatures for maximally efficient performance. These properties render the corresponding devices incompatible with biology, which is: 1) three-dimensional, 2) soft, flexible, and stretchable, and 3) temperature sensitive. These dichotomies are solved by: 1) using 3D scanning and printing for hierarchical, interwoven, multiscale material and device architectures, 2) using nanotechnology as an enabling route for overcoming mechanical discrepancies while revealing new effects due to size scaling, and 3) separating the materials synthesis and 3D printed assembly steps to enable conformal integration of high quality materials with biology. The coupling of 3D printing, novel nanomaterial properties, and 'living' platforms may enable next-generation nano-bio interfaces and 3D printed bionic nanodevices.