Surface modification of fused deposition modeling ABS to enable rapid prototyping of biomedical microdevices

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) using poly (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) (ABS) has emerged as a powerful method in rapid prototyping. However, to date this technique has not been suitable for use in 3D printing of microdevices that interact with biological molecules and cells owing to its water permeability and biofouling nature. In this paper, a versatile method to modify surfaces of ABS fused deposition modeling rapid prototyped devices with microstructured features to render them water-impermeable, hydrophilic, and biocompatible is presented. An acetone-based sealing method is described that has a minimal effect on surface roughness and structural fidelity. Photo-induced graft polymerization of poly (ethylene glycol) functionalities onto the surface is used to increase the hydrophilicity of the ABS and increase resistance to non-specific protein adhesion. These surfaces have been characterized for their morphology, water contact angle and the adhesion of a model protein to demonstrate their improved biocompatibility. The proposed methods use cheap, safe, and widely available materials which should make the creation of biocompatible surfaces using FDM economical, fast, and expand the range of applications of this technique.