| Abstract Scope |
Biomaterial-associated infections are a serious post-operative issue that could lead to implant failure and require revision surgeries. This project aims to deposit an antimicrobial silver nanoparticle (AgNP) hydrogel layer onto porous polylactic acid (PLA) and/or polyetheretherketone (PEEK) biomedical implants using material extrusion-based additive manufacturing (ME-AM) technology. The AgNPs hydrogel incorporates a dispersion agent to prevent agglomeration of the AgNPs. Prior to 3D printing, the rheological properties of the hydrogel, including viscosity, shear thinning index, and recovery time, are determined experimentally using a rheometer to identify the optimal window of 3D printing parameters. Additionally, degradation of the hydrogel at printing temperatures is evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The 3D printing parameters of the hydrogel, including the extrusion pressure, deposition rate, and layer height, are optimized to achieve a uniform coating thickness that maximizes antimicrobial efficacy while remaining non-cytotoxic. The thickness of the coating is evaluated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). |