New high-performance resin for optical, microfluidic and biocompatible applications

With BMF CLEAR, Boston Micro Fabrication (BMF) is expanding its material portfolio with an optically transparent resin that sets new standards in micro-precision 3D printing. As an authorized partner of BMF in the DACH region, we at AM Pioneers are pleased to present this material – and to show why it is a real game changer for certain applications.

What is BMF CLEAR?

BMF CLEAR is a specially developed photopolymer resin with a light transmission of over 90 %. This is not mere translucency – i.e. a diffuse transmission of light – but genuine optical transparency, comparable to glass or PMMA.

CLEAR was developed specifically for use in various models of the microArch® series, which work with Projection Micro Stereolithography (PµSL).

The technical highlights

Optical performance: With a measured light transmission of >90 %, BMF CLEAR achieves values that were previously almost impossible to achieve in this precision class. No post-processing, polishing or grinding required – the component comes straight from the printer in optical quality.

Exceptional precision CLEAR is compatible with BMF’s 10-µm and 25-µm systems, including the microArch® S140, S240, D1025, S350 and S150 series. Layer heights between 10 and 50 micrometers enable the finest structures and maximum design freedom.

Biocompatibility CLEAR has been tested for biocompatibility in accordance with GBT 16886 and has passed the following tests:

• In vitro cytotoxicity test
• Skin irritation test
• Sensitization study

These certifications make CLEAR a reliable choice for medical and life science applications – in a quality that is already known from the BMF materials BIO and MED.

For which applications is BMF CLEAR suitable?

The strengths of CLEAR are particularly evident in the following areas:

Microfluidics CLEAR is the ideal PDMS alternative for the production of microfluidic chips. Where previously complex casting processes with polydimethylsiloxane were necessary, CLEAR enables the direct production of complex microchannels with 10 µm precision – without tools, without detours.

Optical systems and imaging Lenses, light guides, optical windows or housings for sensors – wherever light needs to pass through unhindered, CLEAR demonstrates its transparency of >90 %. The in-vitro cell survival rate of 87.5 % also underlines its suitability for biological imaging applications.

Signal sensors and visualization CLEAR offers the necessary combination of precision and optical purity for the visualization of internal structures or the integration of sensors in transparent housings.

Medical technology and life science CLEAR has passed biocompatibility tests in accordance with GBT 16886, making it suitable for use in medical applications – from diagnostic components to research equipment in the laboratory.

Conclusion

BMF CLEAR fills a gap that has long been open in micro-precision 3D printing: a material that combines true optical transparency with the micro-precision of PµSL technology and at the same time offers the same biocompatibility for which other BMF materials are already valued. This opens up completely new design possibilities for developers in microfluidics, medical technology, sensor technology or the optical industry.

Do you want to know whether BMF CLEAR is suitable for your application? Talk to us – we will be happy to advise you and can realize test prints.