FDM 3D Printing in Biomedical and Microfluidic Applications

Rapid prototyping techniques of complex 3D geometries based on computer models have been proved to be an important tool in science, education, and biomedical applications. Among all current rapid prototyping technologies, fused deposition modeling (FDM) has become a benchtop popular system for daily, on-demand use. This method builds intricate 3D models in a layer-by-layer deposition process using thermoplastics. There are several types of commercially available thermoplastic filaments such as transparent, insulator, biodegradable, conductive, steel-reinforced, and magnetic. Such variety together with the flexibility and low cost of FDM printers enabled several applications ranging from microfluidics to drug delivery systems. In this chapter, we review the leading FDM printers, thermoplastics, and current applications of FDM 3D printing technology in specific research areas.