ABSTRACT This study encompasses the fabrication and characterization of high‐performance 3D‐printed scaffolds using acrylate‐based photopolymer resin formulations for tissue engineering applications. The scaffolds were successfully produced using an LCD‐based 3D printer. Optimal printing parameters, specifically a 50 µm layer thickness and a 13 s UV light exposure, were applied to yield non‐toxic and high‐resolution constructs. The photosensitivity of poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA)‐based hydrogels was enhanced by modification with PVA‐SbQ (Poly(vinyl alcohol)‐Stilbazolium Quaternary). Furthermore, the controlled biodegradability of the scaffolds was optimized through the incorporation of polyethylene glycol (PEG) into the photopolymer formulations and subsequent post‐printing washing procedures. The cytocompatibility and ability of the scaffolds to support cell proliferation were confirmed through detailed cell culture studies utilizing L‐929 fibroblast cells. Analyses of cell adhesion, proliferation, and morphology all yielded positive results, with viability exceeding the 80% minimum threshold. This confirms the scaffolds' significant support for cellular growth and attachment. Ultimately, the new PEGDMA‐based hydrogels (containing PEG and PVA‐SbQ) offer an innovative solution for tissue engineering, characterized by their non‐toxic composition and high‐resolution 3D printing capability.
Tezel et al. (Sun,) studied this question.