Near infrared light-controlled olefin metathesis for polymer patterning and 3D printing

This technology is a near infrared light-controlled method of olefin metathesis for polymer printing.

Unmet Need: Method for polymer printing with low energy and high penetration

Light offers various benefits as an approach to pattern polymers for printing, as it is minimally invasive and harbors high temporal and spatial resolution. Despite this, current methods of photo-controlled polymer printing use high energy wavelengths of light and suffer from poor barrier penetration depth. As such, there is a need for low energy alternatives to enable efficient control over reactivity through physical barriers.

The Technology: Low energy light-controlled olefin metathesis for 3D printing

This method provides low energy light-controlled olefin metathesis with high levels of spatial and temporal resolution. Latent ruthenium olefin metathesis catalysts are activated using near infrared light in combination with an osmium photocatalyst, providing a higher penetration depth capable of polymerization. The development of this system allows for new ways to mold and 3D print polymers.

This technology has been validated in silicone molds, forming a free-standing gel upon polymerization.

Applications:

• 3D printing
• Polymer patterning and molding
• Photodynamic therapy
• Photolithography
• Research tool for analysis of mechanisms underlying photo-catalyzed reactions

Advantages:

• Energy-efficient
• High penetration depth
• High temporal and spatial resolution
• Minimally invasive
• Commercially feasible

Lead Inventor:

Tomislav Rovis, Ph.D.

Patent Information:

Patent Pending

Related Publications:

Tech Ventures Reference:

• IR CU22045, CU21095

• Licensing Contact: Greg Maskel