3D Printed Antimicrobial Biocomposite Material Based on Biopolymers and Enriched with Natural Bioactive Agents, and its Manufacturing Process.

Abstract

This invention presents an environmentally friendly approach to producing 3D-printed antibacterial biocomposite material using naturally extracted biopolymers. An essential oil formulation based on lignin derived from argan nut shells (ANS) replaces synthetic or commercial lignin, significantly reducing production costs while leveraging the inherent antibacterial and antioxidant properties of this sustainable waste product. The biocomposite material is created by blending ANS lignin with Eudragit RS PO (a synthetic polymer that controls drug release), polyethylene glycol (PEG) for flexibility, and Soluplus to enhance the release of essential oils for antimicrobial activity. The resulting smooth, slightly viscous formulation is 3D-printed at room temperature into porous shapes, preserving the bioactivity of the natural essential oils by avoiding high-temperature processes. This method ensures the synergistic antibacterial effects of the essential oils and lignin, significantly improving the performance of the produced material. The process uses a rapid, one-step mixing technique followed by 3D printing, thus offering a simple and efficient preparation method.