An Open Hardware Bioprinter Part I: A bioextruder with a peristaltic pump approach

This study presents the development and characterization of an open source bioextruder for 3D bioprinting, focusing on its application in research laboratories in South America. Bioextruder design is based on several requirements, the design was manufactured using techniques of 3D printing and its electronic control is managed using an Arduino Mega and Ramps 1.4 shield. The paper evaluates mechanical and biological properties, demonstrating that the flow behavior of alginate through the bioextruder is influenced by its concentration, viscosity, and extrusion rate. Results: As for the mechanical characterization test, for low alginate concentrations high velocities show stable extrusion values, while for high concentrations, a low velocity gives stable results. Strand thickness consistent results were obtained with respect to the width of the prints. It is also shown that cell viability decreases as the extrusion speed increases. Conclusion: This research demonstrates a successful bioextruder for precise 3D bioprinting, emphasizing open-source hardware’s significance particularly in resource-limited regions like Latin America.