3D printing based on self-assembled molecular building blocks for materials design and bio-applications

In this project, we intend to develop a new generation of molecular 3D printing. The approach is based on implementation of molecular self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) as building blocks, where the properties of each layer can be well controlled by molecular selection and by grafting different metallic particles or nanoparticles. The proposed method has competitive advantages over conventional 3D printing methods in terms of materials fabrication and mechanism. The proof-of-concept measurements have already been successfully conducted. The project also enables leveraging assets and expertise of the participating organizations in computer modelling (QEERI), nanofabrication (QEERI), electronics (HBKU) and system engineering (HBKU). Successful completion of the project will enable us to create a functional 3D printer which will have no analogy in the present-day 3D printing market. The result of this project can be a foundation for further improvement of this technology and place this 3D printer to the market. This printer will also be heavily utilized in future research activities in HBKU including material synthesis, high-performance device development, etc.

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU)