ABSTRACT
Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a technology booming for processing and development of unique polymeric materials. In this context, the manufacture of parts layer-by-layer with specific requirements such as biomedical devices and tissue engineering may represent an economical option, offering the flexibility of starting materials. This chapter provides an overview of the field of 3D-printed biopolymers for medical applications, and future trends and opportunities in this field. Over the past 15 years, a variety of new technologies have evolved that have transformed the idea of RP to AM, where parts produced by a 3D printer can be directly used for a variety of applications. For biomedical applications, novel fabrication approaches based on the 3D-Bioplotter or direct ink writing, laser-assisted bioprinting, and robotic-assisted printing are all in use for different applications. Other technologies related to metallic printing are covered throughout the chapter.
