An Undergraduate Research Project Using 3D Printing

This work describes the incorporation of 3D printing into an undergraduate research project which was part of a larger research project focused on glucose sensing using a Carbon NanoFiber (CNF) sensor. The sensor and peripheral components had been developed, but there was still a need to stabilize the sensor components within an enclosure to complete the platform. Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and 3D printing were investigated to solve the problem of stabilizing the sensor components. First, a schematic of the support structure was prepared using AutoCad software, a tool for computer aided design. Next, the schematic was used as input to print a support structure directly from a 3D printer. The final structure was evaluated in comparison to polyurethane foam, a common support material.  Based on data collected, the 3D-printed support structure was more aesthetically pleasing and provided better shock support.  Additionally, the positive educational outcomes of the project, which included a high level of engagement by the student and placing in a regional undergraduate poster competition, suggest that 3D printing can be effectively integrated into the chemical engineering discipline through undergraduate research projects.