Fibre-reinforced biocompatible hydrogel to replace single-use plastic tubing in the clinical setting

In this work we examine a manufacturing process to produce hydrogel tubing for extracorporeal applications. In the first study we examine the methodology to scale-up extrusion printers to inertial flow conditions. We advance bounds to maintain hydrodynamic stability through direct numerical simulation which are verified experimentally. Using these bounds, we develop three different 3D-extrusion printers operating with speeds of up to 12 cm/s. In the second study, we explore the use of these printers by producing biodegradable hydrogel tubing. When reinforced with 1% cellulose fibre, these tubes are sufficiently tough to circulate human blood for 200 h with marginal spallation and display a 6-fold decrease in platelet adhesion. This is a promising first step to reduce cardiovascular complications and to replace single-use plastic tubing in the hospital setting. •We extend the range of 3D extrusion printers to nearly-turbulent conditions.•We printed hydrogel tubing reinforced with cellulose fibre.•We circulated human blood in these tubes for 200 h with minimal platelet adhesion.•This is a promising step to replace single-use plastic tubing in hospitals.