Ceramic-based ink enables 3D-printed bone tissue

Using a 3D-printer that deploys an ink made up of calcium phosphate, the scientists developed a new technique called ceramic omnidirectional bioprinting in cell-suspensions (COBICS), which enabled them to print bone-like structures that harden in minutes when placed in water.

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3D-printing bone-mimicking structures is not new, but this is the first time such material can be created at room temperature - complete with living cells - and without harsh chemicals or radiation, said Dr Iman Roohani from UNSW's School of Chemistry.

"This is a unique technology that can produce structures that closely mimic bone tissue," he said in a statement. "It could be used in clinical applications where there is a large demand for in situ repair of bone defects such as those caused by trauma, cancer, or where a big chunk of tissue is resected."