Grant to develop 3D printed medical devices

Researchers at the University of Nottingham’s additive manufacturing (AM) center have been awarded a £6m grant to make it easier for the UK healthcare industry to use 3D printing.

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) funding will help create a ‘toolkit platform’ to instruct users about how to access the materials and processes 3D print medical technology and devices.

According to the researchers, medtech materials are often not available and product development can be “arduous”.

“Multi-material, multi-functional additive manufacturing has the potential to revolutionise the way we realise medtech innovation,” said Ricky Wildman, professor in chemical engineering at the university. “This funding will transform the market adoption of medical devices and therapies that are truly life-saving for patients.”