3D bioprinting of collagen

The purpose of this report is to show the research done with regards to mechanical properties of 3D Bioprinted collagen hydrogels as well as the implementation of measures to improve upon the 3D Bioprinting of the hydrogels. The physical sustainability of the collagen hydrogels after printing as well as the printability of collagen is discussed in the report as well. The most salient result from this report was the mechanical properties extracted from the casted collagen samples, as well as the 3D Bioprinting of the collagen hydrogels on a heating pad. The storage modulus as well as loss modulus was compared against the oscillation strain before and after the Creep and Time Sweep processes. The proposed plan was to compare these mechanical properties between the casted collagen samples and the 3D Bioprinted samples on a heating pad, with the biggest challenge being the cross-linking not happening. Certain printing profile parameters were explored in their possibility of affecting the bioprinting and if it would affect the cross-linking. Succinctly, the report explores the possibility of a bioprinting process of immediate cross-linking of collagen. Unfortunately, due to the Covid-19 disease, the results attained were incomplete and may have led to incomplete observations, which is addressed in the discussion chapter.Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering