LIgnin FOrmulations for MULtimaterial 3D printing of microneedle electrodes (LIFOMUL 3D)

Additive manufacturing is expected to provide functional multi-materials with micron-scale resolution using environmentally sustainable processes. LIFOMUL 3D will implement the printing via projection-microstereolithography (PμSL) of materials based on lignin, the second-most abundant natural polymer and accumulating as byproduct of cellulose production. The goal is to achieve sub-100 μm feature sizes, biocompatibility and spatially controlled electrical conductivity. Electrocardiography- (ECG) and electroencephalography- (EEG) compatible microneedle electrodes for long term monitoring applications will be printed with superior signal quality and long-term stability. A high-resolution PμSL system will be developed for the hybrid printing of the conductive and insulating resins, eliminating the need for metal evaporation. LIFOMUL 3D will so establish a platform for the additive manufacturing of parts for medical applications with high resolution and obtained from renewable resources.