Technology Leapfrogs

Credit: Zak Page Lab

The future of medical devices may involve a lot more 3D printing. Photopolymerization is a type of 3D printing that is highly precise. The problem? It also typically requires energy-intensive, costly ultra-violet (UV) light, which is dangerous to living cells. University of Texas at Austin chemists led by Zak Page recently developed a process that uses visible light instead. The resulting materials are stronger, more flexible and more resistant to strain than what is possible with other technologies. Scientists demoed the process to create this whimsical model frog. One day, though, the technology could bring life-changing applications, like stronger joint replacements, prosthetics and implants.