3D Drug Printing by Semi-Solid Extrusion Through Reusable Cartridges: Usability Evaluation

Rohan Rege, Tessa Mellema, Arwin Ramcharan, Anouar Ait Hoummad, Sophie Verhoeven, Vibhas Mishra, Arjen J. Jansen, Niels Ouwerkerk, Fereshteh Shokri*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

Abstract

Purpose
Three-dimensional (3D) printing is revolutionising tablet fabrication in the field of pharmacy, offering personalised dosing through additive manufacturing techniques such as semi-solid extrusion (SSE). SSE traditionally uses disposable syringes, which pose challenges in temperature control and waste generation.

Methods
This article experimentally simulates various scenarios relevant to pharmacy practice to evaluate the usability of the semi-solid extrusion approach using a first-of-its-kind reusable cartridge. The research assesses the stability of formulations under thermal stress conditions that simulate commercial settings, demonstrating the robust performance of this 3D drug printing method across multiple uses.

Results
This study introduces pharmaceutical-grade stainless-steel cartridges as a sustainable alternative to disposable syringes, enhancing temperature management and reducing waste in SSE 3D printing.

Conclusion
Our findings highlight the potential of reusable cartridges to improve efficiency and sustainability in pharmaceutical manufacturing, with implications for future formulation developments and stability studies. The presented 3D drugprinting approach offers a promising solution for environmentally responsible practices in pharmacy.
Original languageEnglish
Article number21
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Innovation
Volume20
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2025

Bibliographical note

Green Open Access added to TU Delft Institutional Repository 'You share, we take care!' - Taverne project https://www.openaccess.nl/en/you-share-we-take-care
Otherwise as indicated in the copyright section: the publisher is the copyright holder of this work and the author uses the Dutch legislation to make this work public.

Keywords

  • 3D printing
  • Semi-solid extrusion
  • Sustainability

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