---
title: "3D Bioplotter Technology"
url: https://www.voxelmatters.com/additive-manufacturing/am-technologies/what-is-3d-bioplotter-technology/
date: 2017-12-13
modified: 2017-12-14
lang: en
author: "VoxelMatters"
description: "What is 3D Bioplotter Technology? The 3D Bioplotter System is a versatile rapid prototyping tool used mainly for processing a great variety of biomaterials for computer-aided tissue engineering (CATE), from..."
word_count: 313
---

# 3D Bioplotter Technology

# What is 3D Bioplotter Technology?

The 3D Bioplotter System is a versatile rapid prototyping tool used mainly for processing a great variety of biomaterials for computer-aided tissue engineering (CATE), from 3D CAD models and patient CT data to the physical 3D scaffold with a designed and defined outer form and an open inner structure. Since it can extrude paste and gel materials, it has also been used for producing parts using ceramic paste materials, with up to 100 layer micron resolution. The main advantage of using extrusion systems is that they can use multiple materials in a single print.

| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| ---------- | ------------- |
| - Highest resolution for an extrusion system | - Limited part geometry |
| - Use of multiple materials in a single print | - High cost of system |
| - Ideal for research environments and medical (bone) applications | - Small build volume |

## How does 3D Bioplotter work?

EnvisionTEC’s 3D Bioplotter system can be used to fabricate scaffolds using the widest range of materials of any singular rapid prototyping machine, from soft hydrogels over polymer melts up to hard ceramics and metals. These, however, have been mostly implemented at a research level and not for commercial and production applications.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukEQSroCvZ8&t=193s

## Available machines:

The 3D Bioplotter is available in three models: the high-end Manufacturer Series, the Developer Series and the more cost-effective Starter Series.

![](https://www.voxelmatters.com//wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Manufacturer-3D-Bioplotter.jpg)

| Model |  3D-Bioplotter Manufacturer Series |
| ----- | ----------------------------------- |
| Manufacturer |  EnvisionTEC |
| Price | $150,000 |
| Technology |  Pneumatic Extrusion |
| Materials |  pastes, hydrogels, silicone, ceramics |
| Effective Build Volume |  150 x 150 x 150 mm |
| Layer Thickness |  100 μm |

You can find more information and the specifications for the machine [here](https://envisiontec.com/3d-printers/3d-bioplotter/).

### Further reading on EnvisionTEC and the technology:

[• Danish Researchers Implant Most Natural 3D Printed Bone Yet in Mouse](https://www.voxelmatters.com//danish-researchers-implant-natural-3d-printed-bone-yet-mouse/)
[• EnvisionTEC to Unveil New 3D Bioplotter Line-up and Software at the 2016 World Biomaterials Congress](https://www.voxelmatters.com//envisiontec-unveil-new-3d-bioplotter-line-software-2016-world-biomaterials-congress/)
• [EnvisionTEC Bioplotter Used at Northwestern to 3D Print with Lunar and Martian Soil](https://www.voxelmatters.com//envisiontec-bioplotter-used-northwestern-3d-print-lunar-martian-soil-colonization/)