3D Printing in Chemical Research: Cost-Effective Solutions for Laboratories

The use of 3D printing technology offers various opportunities for cost reduction in laboratories and promotes innovation in chemical and pharmaceutical research. This is exemplified by the Hilton Group at the UCL School of Pharmacy, which began developing and commercializing the IKA Flow Reactor in collaboration with IKA in 2020. Since then, 3D printing has become an essential tool in research.

Flow chemistry is an alternative to traditional batch chemistry and offers advantages such as more efficient mixing, improved reaction conditions, enhanced safety, and better reproducibility. However, flow systems are often expensive, preventing many laboratories from fully utilizing the methodology. The Hilton Group identified the need for a low-cost flow reactor manufactured using 3D printing techniques. These reactors are made from chemically resistant PLA and are controlled using affordable Arduino microelectronics.

The flexibility of 3D printing allows these reactors to be adapted for various chemical applications. Additional modules for photochemistry, temperature control, and monitoring have already been developed and printed. Another significant achievement is the production of 3D-printed magnetic stirrer bars with embedded catalysts. These enable the repeated use of expensive catalysts, reducing costs and improving sustainability. Furthermore, 3D-printed capsules loaded with active ingredients have been explored for new drug delivery approaches.

Beyond research, the Hilton Group also uses 3D printing for the rapid production of common laboratory equipment such as round-bottom flask holders, desk organizers, and replacement clips. These components can be manufactured directly in the lab, saving costs and reducing the environmental footprint. In total, the laboratory has already saved over two million pounds through the use of 3D printing technologies.