Parameters Impacting the 3D Direct Ink Writing (DIW) Silicone Printing Process and Investigating How the Size of 3D-Printed Aortic Heart Valve Models Influences Cardiac Efficiency

In the healthcare industry, the selection of biocompatible materials suitable for 3D printing is markedly less extensive than what is typically available through conventional manufacturing processes. Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) is distinguished by its exceptional stability, excellent biocompatibility, and considerable flexibility, offering significant prospects for manufacturers of medical devices involved in 3D printing. The primary aim of this research is to examine the essential factors and their interconnections that affect the 3D printing process with a Direct Ink Writing (DIW) 3D printer, which is specifically tailored for the production of aortic heart valves made from UV-cured silicone. Additionally, this study aims to investigate how the size of the heart valve impacts cardiac performance. This study implements House of Quality (HOQ) and Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) techniques to evaluate the interrelations among the different factors identified in the 3D printing process. Liquid silicone is especially advantageous for Direct Ink Writing (DIW) due to its low-temperature curing properties and low viscosity, which enable precise printing for intricate designs. Two different sizes of aortic heart valves, namely 23 mm and 36 mm, will be manufactured using UV-cured silicone, with both sizes having the same leaflet thickness of 0.8 mm and 1.6 mm. An examination will be conducted to assess how the size of the valve influences its performance and functionality. A Mock Circulatory Loop experimental setup will be used to test the silicone-printed heart valves, focusing on their capacity to maintain unidirectional flow and inhibit backflow through the flexible leaflets that function in alignment with the cardiac cycle.