Scientific Achievement
The shape-memory effect of two photon polymerization (TPP)-fabricated microfibers in water was revealed and precisely quantified using a novel tensile testing method.
Significance and Impact
Current methods for characterizing microfibers are confined to ambient environments due to the limitations of conventional micro-mechanical testing methods. This liquid-based method represents a significant advancement and may help release the full potential of TPP-fabricated 3D tissue scaffolds.
Research Details
- New experimental method for mechanical testing microfibers in liquid was developed using a two-stage TPP fabrication process.
- Mechanical properties of microfibers printed with TPP showed significant dependence on printing parameters in water.
- Shape recovery was observed for microfibers under tensile strain in water and the recovery dynamics are size-dependent.
G. Minnick et al., "Two‐Photon Polymerized Shape Memory Microfibers: A New Mechanical Characterization Method in Liquid." Advanced Functional Materials 2206739 (2022).
DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202206739
