Shape fidelity and sterility assessment of 3D printed polycaprolactone and hydroxyapatite scaffolds

Abstract Polycaprolactone (PCL) and hydroxyapatite (HA) composite are widely used in tissue engineering (TE). They fit to being processed with three-dimensional (3D) printing technique create scaffolds verifiable porosity. The current challenge is guarantee the reliability reproducibility of 3D printed sterile which can be for vitro cell cultures. In this context it important successful culture, have a protocol order evaluate sterility scaffolds. We proposed systematic approach sterilise 90%PCL-10%HA pellets using bioprinter before starting process. evaluated printability PCL-HA shape fidelity without sterilised varying infill pattern, following method established by United States Pharmacopoeia. Finally, thermal analyses supported Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy were useful verify stability sterilisation process PCL solid state HA. results show that use printer, according protocol, allows obtain suitable TE applications such as bone or cartilage repair.