High resolution light-based 3D printing of a bio-sourced monomer with tuneable depolymerisation

Abstract

Light-based 3D printing has historically relied mainly on the photopolymerisation of (meth)acrylate-based inks. However, exploring new chemistries that include heteroatom-containing linkages can increase depolymerisation options and results in more sustainable inks. Bio-based dithiolanes are an emerging class of alternative printable materials. Herein, we present a dithiolane-based ink. Herein, we present a dithiolane-based ink and analyse its printing performance across scales—from macroscale structures fabricated via digital light processing to microscale features achieved through two-photon laser printing. We demonstrate the successful fabrication of complex 3D structures with fine feature resolution, highlighting the material's suitability for microscale applications. Moreover, we incorporate a thermally latent base to enable controlled thermal depolymerisation, which is effective across both printing scales. This work represents the first example of targeted depolymerisation in microprinted structures using an embedded latent base, offering a novel and sustainable (meth)acrylate-free strategy.