Development of a bioactive material to be used in the production of components using the SLA process for polymer composites with silver-based nanoparticles

Abstract

This project will develop a bioactive material, that can be used in additive manufacturing process (SLA), to build parts with customized geometries and functionalized surfaces. This bioactive material will be based on a polymeric composite with silver-based nanoparticles to present anti-microbial activity. This development will increase life of parts, such as catheters, tracheal tubes, bioreactors and personal protective equipment. The bioactive composite will be produced by mechanical mixing of a commercial biocompatible resin and, at least, two types of silver-based nanoparticles: nanoparticles produced at the Plasma Laboratory at POLI-USP and commercially available silver nanoparticles. The composite materials will be tested, initially, in a Photon S from Shenzhen Anycubic Technology Co. Ltd., already available for the activities of this project. Nevertheless, this printer presents a basic design and a new equipment, capable of maintaining a homogeneous mixture during the printing process, would be acquired. This homogeneous mixture is important to avoid the settling of the particles at the bottom of the tank, which can affect the manufacturing of parts with heights greater than 10 mm. Instrumented indentation, optical interferometer, Raman spectroscopy and microscopy techniques (optical, scanning electron microscopy and atom force microscopy) will be applied to evaluate mechanical properties, surface roughness and nanoparticles features (size and distribution). Antimicrobial, antiviral and toxic effects will be evaluated to validate the biological activity and ensure biocompatibility of the bioactive material. Then, the main result of this project will be a manufacturing route to produce parts presenting customized geometry and biological activities, developed to increase patient comfort and extend component life, reducing the proliferation of microorganisms and biofilm formation. Nowadays, there is no development and production of a similar material for SLA manufacturing process nationwide, which allows the future company to explore a market that includes a business to business and business to consumer business modes in different areas, including hospital, food and sports. (AU)