3D Printing 4D Printing’s Network of Research/ Artificial Intelligence.
3D-Printed Lab on a Chip Unleashes On-the-Spot Testing
The researchers at McGill University have pioneered a 3D-printed “lab on a chip” that could transform the landscape of diagnostic testing. The chip, designed to be 3D-printed in just 30 minutes, stands as a remarkable innovation with the potential to make on-the-spot testing widely accessible. Published in the journal Advanced Materials, the study details the creation of capillaries chips that serve as miniature laboratories. What sets these chips apart is their single-use nature and independence from external power sources—they operate seamlessly with just a paper strip, utilizing capillary action. This mimics the phenomenon where a spilled liquid spontaneously wicks into a paper towel, showcasing a simplified yet effective mechanism.
Traditional diagnostics often rely on peripherals, creating a dependency on additional equipment. Professor David Juncker, Chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at McGill and the senior author of the study draws a parallel to the evolution of cell phones from traditional desktop computers, emphasizing the elimination of the need for separate components. The advent of at-home testing, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscored the need for rapid and accessible diagnostics. While existing rapid tests have limitations and are primarily executed in central labs, the capillary chips offer a promising solution. Notably, these chips can be 3D-printed for various tests, including quantifying COVID-19 antibodies.
However, the journey from research breakthrough to practical application poses challenges. Regulatory approvals and securing necessary test materials stand as hurdles that the research team acknowledges. Yet, the proactive efforts of the team to adapt the technology for use with affordable 3D printers signal a commitment to overcoming these obstacles. The potential impact of this innovation is far-reaching. By speeding up diagnoses and enhancing patient care, the 3D-printed lab on a chip aims to usher in a new era of accessible testing. Professor Juncker envisions this advancement as a catalyst for individuals, researchers, and industries to explore possibilities in a cost-effective and user-friendly manner. Moreover, it holds the promise of empowering health professionals to rapidly craft tailored solutions at the point of care.
As this 3D-printed diagnostic technology progresses, it not only marks a significant milestone in the realm of healthcare but also hints at the transformative power of 3D printing in shaping the future of diagnostics.
By McGill University. Made-to-order diagnostic tests may be on the horizon: Researchers invent lab on a chip that can be 3D-printed in minutes.
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Building tomorrow Europe’s first publicly funded 3D-Printed apartment complex takes shape.
At the heart of this groundbreaking project lies the BOD2 3D printer—a testament to Peri 3D Construction’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of construction technology. With a resume already boasting projects like a two-story printed home in Houston, Peri 3D Construction is taking its concrete mix and cutting-edge printer to new heights.
This three-floor, six-unit apartment building spans 7,007 square feet, offering a glimpse into the future of affordable living. The individual apartments, ranging from 657 to 872 square feet, present a blend of modern design and cost-effectiveness. With a rent cap of $528, this project aims to make futuristic living accessible to a broader audience. While the printing process is expected to conclude by the end of November, the project’s unique approach deserves attention. The first and second floors are being 3D-printed, showcasing the efficiency of this technology. However, the top floor will utilize a “hybrid timber construction method,” highlighting the integration of traditional methods in this cutting-edge project.
As we marvel at the innovative strides in construction technology, it’s crucial to consider the impact on jobs. How will the rise of 3D-printed construction reshape traditional roles? Are we witnessing the birth of new opportunities in an evolving industry? These questions linger as the construction-tech landscape undergoes transformative changes.
The completion of this 3D-printed apartment building is not just a milestone; it’s a glimpse into the future of housing. As Peri 3D Construction’s managing director, Fabian Meyer-Brötz, envisions, this technology has the potential to revolutionize modern construction sites, particularly in social housing projects.
Join us on this exciting journey as we witness the convergence of innovation and affordability, setting the stage for the next chapter in the evolution of housing. The advent of 3D-printed construction, as demonstrated by Peri 3D Construction, raises questions about its impact on jobs in the construction industry. Will this technology lead to a shift in job requirements, creating new roles in 3D printing construction tech? Explore the potential effects on traditional construction jobs and the emergence of new opportunities in this dynamic sector.
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