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3D-Printable Biobased Eutectogels Based on Soybean Oil and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents for Underwater EMG Recording

3D-Printable Biobased Eutectogels Based on Soybean Oil and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents for Underwater EMG Recording
Contributors
Kris Weigal
Omni Tech International, Ltd
Learning Objets
Summary
This study presents the development of 3D-printable biobased eutectogels that integrate acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) with natural deep eutectic solvents (DES) to create hydrophobic, conductive soft materials suitable for underwater electromyography (EMG) recording. The research explores the tunability of the eutectogels' mechanical, electrochemical, and water-repellent properties by varying the composition and functionalization of AESO and DES. The formulations demonstrate excellent printability using VAT photopolymerization, making them ideal candidates for bioelectronic applications, such as marine biology, underwater exploration, and environmental monitoring. The findings highlight the potential of biobased, eco-friendly materials to enhance the durability and efficiency of bioelectronic sensors in aquatic environments.

Citation:
Locatelli, S.; Luque, G. C.; Ruiz-Mateos Serrano, R.; Dominguez-Alfaro, A.; Reniero, G.; Picchio, M. L.; Leiva, J.; Gugliotta, L. M.; Malliaras, G. G.; Mecerreyes, D.; Ronco, L. I.; Minari, R. J. 3D-Printable Biobased Eutectogels Based on Soybean Oil and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents for Underwater EMG Recording. ACS Appl. Polym. Mater. 2025, 7 (5), 2945–2954. DOI: 10.1021/acsapm.4c03592.
Keyword Tags
Soybean Oil
Deep Eutectic Solvents
3-D Printing
Soy Chemistry
Link to external
3D-Printable Biobased Eutectogels Based on Soybean Oil and Natural Deep Eutecti…
Learning Goals/Student Objectives
1. Understand the Composition and Function of Eutectogels
--Explain the role of natural deep eutectic solvents (DES) and soybean oil-derived polymers in the formation of eutectogels.
--Describe the physical and chemical properties that make these materials suitable for underwater electromyography (EMG) recording.

2. Explore 3D-Printing in Material Science
--Identify how VAT photopolymerization enables the fabrication of flexible, hydrophobic bioelectronic devices.
--Discuss the advantages of 3D-printing biobased materials for custom electrode designs in marine and medical applications.

3. Analyze the Role of Biobased Materials in Sustainable Technology
--Compare biobased vs. synthetic polymer materials in terms of environmental impact and functionality.
--Evaluate the sustainability benefits of using soybean oil and natural solvents in bioelectronics.

4. Apply Knowledge of Conductive Materials in Bioelectronics
-Describe how ionic conductivity in eutectogels supports electrical signal transmission in wet environments.
-Explore real-world applications of conductive polymers in biomedical engineering, marine research, and wearable technology.

Student Objectives:
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
1. Identify key components and properties of biobased eutectogels.
2. Explain how 3D-printing enhances material design for bioelectronic applications.
3. Discuss the importance of sustainability in the development of new polymer materials.
4. Analyze how ionic conductivity enables EMG signal recording in underwater environments.
5. Propose potential future applications of biobased conductive materials in medical and environmental fields.
Object Type
Lesson summaries
Case studies
Audience
High School (Secondary School)
Introductory Undergraduate
Common pedagogies covered
Blended learning
Context-based learning
Green Chemistry Principles
Waste Prevention
Safer Solvents and Auxiliaries
Design for Energy Efficiency
Use of Renewable Feedstocks
Design for Degradation
U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Good Health and Well-Being
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Responsible Consumption and Production
Climate Action
Life Below Water
Life on Land
Safety Precautions, Hazards, and Risk Assessment
1️. Chemical Hazards & Safety Precautions
A. Acrylated Epoxidized Soybean Oil (AESO) & Photopolymerization Materials
• Hazard: Potential skin/eye irritation; possible sensitization upon repeated exposure.
• Precaution:
✅ Wear gloves, lab coat, and safety goggles when handling AESO-based resins.
✅ Use in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood.
✅ Dispose of unused resin and polymerized waste according to hazardous waste guidelines.
B. Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES/NADES)
• Hazard: Generally considered low toxicity, but some DES components may cause mild irritation or react with other chemicals.
• Precaution:
✅ Avoid direct skin/eye contact; wear protective gloves if handling in bulk.
✅ Store at recommended temperature and humidity levels to prevent degradation.

2️. 3D-Printing & UV Curing Hazards
A. VAT Photopolymerization (UV Exposure & Resin Handling)
• Hazard: UV light exposure may cause eye damage; some UV-curable resins release volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
• Precaution:
✅ Always wear UV-blocking safety glasses when working near active printers.
✅ Use proper ventilation or an exhaust system to minimize VOC inhalation.
✅ Avoid direct contact with uncured resin—wash skin immediately if exposed.

3️. Electrical & Bioelectronic Safety
A. Conductive Eutectogels for EMG Recording
• Hazard: Potential for electrical shock if used improperly.
• Precaution:
✅ Ensure proper insulation and grounding when integrating eutectogels into electronic systems.
✅ Use low-voltage systems and certified biomedical equipment to prevent hazards.

4. Environmental & Waste Disposal Considerations
A. Sustainable Disposal of Biobased Materials
• Hazard: Even biobased polymers may degrade slowly in the environment if improperly disposed of.
• Precaution:
✅ Collect all waste materials for proper disposal per local environmental regulations.
✅ Store unused eutectogels in sealed, labeled containers to prevent contamination.
✅ Minimize plastic waste by optimizing 3D-printing material usage.
Teacher Recommendations or Piloting Data (if available)
This research on 3D-printable biobased eutectogels can be integrated into high school and university-level STEM curricula, particularly in chemistry, materials science, environmental science, and engineering. Here’s how educators can incorporate it:

1. Lab Experiments & Demonstrations
--Conduct hands-on experiments with biopolymer synthesis using safe, commercially available alternatives to deep eutectic solvents (DES).
--Demonstrate UV-curing of bio-based resins to show how polymerization works.

2. Interdisciplinary Learning
--Chemistry & Green Chemistry: Explore renewable materials, polymer chemistry, and ionic conductivity.
--Engineering & 3D Printing: Discuss additive manufacturing, biomedical applications, and sustainable material design.
--Environmental Science: Evaluate the life cycle of biobased materials and their role in reducing plastic waste.

3. Project-Based Learning
--Students can design and test their own biobased materials for real-world applications, such as wearable electronics, medical sensors, or biodegradable packaging.
--Encourage collaborative research projects connecting science, engineering, and sustainability.

Piloting Data
Although no formal piloting data is included in the original article, potential educational pilots could focus on:
1. Student Engagement & Comprehension
--Surveys assessing student understanding of green chemistry, bio-based materials, and 3D printing.
--Pre- and post-lesson assessments to measure concept retention.

2. Hands-on Testing & Feasibility
--Small-scale 3D-printing tests in classrooms with biobased polymers (where facilities allow).
--Collaboration with university labs for more advanced material testing.

3. Sustainability Impact Assessments
--Projects where students compare environmental impacts of biobased vs. petroleum-based materials.

NGSS Standards, if applicable
High School (HS) Physical Science & Engineering
PS1.A: Structure and Properties of Matter (Relates to material science and the chemical composition of eutectogels)

PS2.B: Types of Interactions (Focus on ionic conductivity and intermolecular forces in DES)

PS3.D: Energy in Chemical Processes (UV polymerization in 3D printing)

ETS1.B: Developing Possible Solutions (Engineering of bioelectronic materials for underwater applications)

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Kris Weigal
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