Work

Initiator-Free Recyclable Anthracene-Based Photocurable Resin Enabling Sustainable 3D Printing via Single- and Two-Photon Stereolithography

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Single- and two-photon stereolithography are high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) printing techniques that are widely used to fabricate complex microstructures. However, the resulting structures have high cross-linking and density, which limits their recyclability. Existing approaches to addressing this issue typically rely on chain-growth polymerization, which requires photoinitiators and additional reagents for recycling. In this study, we present an anthracene-based photocurable resin that undergoes reversible photodimerization, enabling phase transitions between the solid and liquid states without photoinitiators or additives. Using this resin, we fabricated and recycled 3D microstructures via two-photon lithography, demonstrating over ten successful reprocessing cycles with minimal degradation. In addition, the resin is also compatible with single-photon microstereolithography, highlighting its versatility. These findings suggest a promising route for sustainable high-resolution additive manufacturing.

Source: ACS Omega

DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.5c09643

Authors: Masaru Mukai, Wakana Miyadai, Seina Matsubara, Tomomi Aoki, Shoji Maruo

Institution: Yokohama National University

Language: English

Topic: Photopolymerization techniques and applications

Subfield: Organic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,935