3D direct-write printing of water soluble micromoulds for high-resolution rapid prototyping

Direct-write printing has contributed tremendously to additive manufacturing; in particular extrusion based where it extended the range of materials for 3D and thus enabled use across many more sectors. The inks direct-write however, need careful synthesis invariably undergo extensive preparation before being able print. Hence, new ink efforts are required every time a material is be printed; this particularly challenging low storage modulus (G’) like silicones, especially at higher resolutions (under 10 µm). Here we report development precise (< µm) printable polymer, with which print micromoulds filled standard silicones polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) left cure room temperature. proof concept demonstrated using simple water soluble polymer as mould material. approach enables micrometre scale silicone structures prototyped ease, away from cleanroom.