| dc.description.abstract | The goal of this research work is to explore the potential of directed energy deposition (DED) as an additive manufacturing process for pharmaceuticals. DED is a process commonly used in 3D printing of metals, in which a focused energy source such as lasers and electron beams is used to melt deposited powder onto a build plate. This allows for greater control over the customization of prints, including material composition, geometric accuracy, and detail. Such precision is particularly important for patients with specific needs, such as those in the geriatric and pediatric populations. However, the use of DED for pharmaceutical fabrication has yet to be fully explored and tested. To address this gap in knowledge, this research work focuses on developing a working prototype of a DED machine that is specifically tailored for pharmaceutical additive manufacturing. The machine was created by modifying a traditional FDM printer to integrate an enclosed building area, a laser, and a powder deposition mechanism. The resulting prototype was used to produce tablets, demonstrating the impact of various process parameters on print quality. By proving the concept of DED as a viable method for pharmaceutical manufacturing, this research work opens up a plethora of possibilities to aid patients. In particular, DED could enable greater personalization and flexibility in drug dosage and combination, as well as the potential for more complex geometries that could impact drug release rates. The precision and control offered by DED could also lead to increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness in drug production. Ultimately, the successful implementation of DED in the pharmaceutical industry could significantly improve patient outcomes and contribute to the evolution of personalized medicine | |
