As part of an exciting new development for potential materials for 3D printing and conventional casting in dentistry, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a composite made primarily from cellulose nanocrystals, chains of organic polymers arranged in crystalline patterns, and some synthetic polymers. They reported that the hardness of this all-organic material is comparable to that of conventional aluminum alloys and is stronger and tougher than some types of bone.
The researchers said: “Due to their exceptional mechanical and chemical properties and their natural abundance, cellulose nanocrystals are promising building blocks of sustainable polymer composites.”
In a press release from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dr. A. John Hart, professor of mechanical engineering, said: “By creating CNC composites under high stress, we can give polymer-based materials mechanical properties that they have never had. before”. He continued, “If we can replace some petroleum-based plastics with naturally occurring cellulose, it might be better for the planet.”
3D printing and casting the composite into coin-sized pieces of material and testing it for strength and durability. In one of these tests, the researchers also shaped the composite into a tooth shape to show that the material could one day be used to make cellulose-based dental implants.