inkjet-bioAM

Project description

The inkjet-bioAM project develops an innovative platform for smart manufacturing of biomedical products using industrial multi-material inkjet processes. Its goal is to digitize the production of medical devices and pharmaceuticals, making healthcare systems in Europe more sustainable and efficient. Current barriers – such as limited biomaterial-based inks, optimization needs for multi-material printing processes, and GMP-compliant printing systems – are specifically addressed. The consortium of 15 partners across five countries is establishing three pilot lines for bioscaffolds, biosensors, and personalized medicines, where in-vitro tests, printing experiments, and process validations will take place. The platform aims to demonstrate reproducible procedures for functional printing of medical systems, creating the foundation for a digital, additive value chain in biomedical manufacturing.

Project objectives and technical innovation

inkjet-bioAM aims to establish industrial pilot lines that leverage multi-material inkjet printing for three specific biomedical applications: functionalized bioscaffolds, biosensors, and personalized drug dosages. The technical innovation lies in combining biomaterial-compatible inks, GMP-compliant printing processes, and digitally controlled production workflows. By overcoming material limitations and process bottlenecks, the project creates a scalable, repeatable platform that accelerates industrial adoption. Additionally, it fosters the development of an EU-wide ecosystem through open calls, offering SMEs up to €60,000 to integrate new applications into the pilot lines. The novelty lies in integrating modular additive manufacturing solutions into regulated production environments, enabling the creation of personalized, digitally manufactured medical products.

Digital multi-material printing technology for personalized medicine

• Enables the industrial production of biofunctional surfaces and devices such as implants, biosensors, and pharmaceutical products through flexible inkjet printing processes.
• Digital multi-material printing processes reduce material waste, energy consumption, and production costs compared to conventional manufacturing methods.
• Developing new printing technologies for the precise integration of biological and functional materials opens up new avenues for personalized healthcare solutions.
• Establishes a pan-European innovation ecosystem for automated, scalable manufacturing in the healthcare sector and promotes digitalization in medical technology.