TPP (Polymerization with two photons) technology has long been known for its ultra-elevated precision, allowing easy printing of micro-nostructures. However, it always has a limitation: only monochromatic models can be printed, because the entire process is based on a single photo -resin.
Now, this bottleneck has finally been pierced!
Recently, a research team from the Chinese Academy of Chinese Sciences and University of Hong Kong and other institutions have jointly developed innovative technology to introduce colors during the TPP printing process for the first time. This technology is calledEF-TPP – – He introduces the unconventional method of “electric field”, so that each tiny Voxel can have a different color, really realizingColor printing at the structural level。
The results of the relevant research were published in the journal Pnas Nexus under the title “Polymerization system with two electric coupled photons coupled for the module on demand of structural color printed in 3D”.
What is EF-TPP?
EF-TPP (Polymerization with two photons assisted by the electric field) dynamically controls the optical properties of the resin by applying an electric field during printing. The special resin material used is very sensitive to the electric field and will generate different structural colors by modifying “the spacing of the helical structures” inside – a physical color which does not depend on the pigments.
In other words, the laser is responsible for printing forms and the electric field is responsible for “coloring”. Each Voxel has not only a spatial position, but also has a precise color. In addition to the revolutionary capacity of “coloring”, EF-TPP technology also shows a more exciting potential.
Some materials have thermochromic properties and can visually respond to temperature changes, which makes them ideal for use inNew smart sensors or devices; At the same time, the EF-TPP should reduce the toxic chemicals used in the traditional treatment of micro-nano, which is of great importance in promoting green manufacturing. More importantly, by combining its ultra-elevated precision and color printing capacities, this technology shows large application perspectives in peak fields such as micro-optations, portable electronics and biomarkers.
A subversive attempt: electric field + 3D printing
The most unique thing about the EF-TPP is that it boldly introduces “electric field control” into the 3D printing process, allowing traditional TPP to carry out color printing, not only to improve printing functions, but also to provide greener, safe and high performance solutions in the field of micro-nano manufacturing.
Although this technology is still in its infancy, it undoubtedly allowed us to see the endless possibilities of 3D printing in high precision color. In the future, we look forward to this technology to leave the laboratory and become the main tool for marketing.
