ABSTRACT Three‐dimensional (3D) printing technologies are continually advancing, significantly broadening their application scope. By employing fused deposition modeling (FDM) to create iterative prototypes and stereolithography (SLA) for crafting functional components, these additive manufacturing techniques offer a highly efficient solution regarding cost and production speed. Although biocompatible materials are widely accessible, the biocompatibility of resins remains a contentious issue and requires specific evaluation for the relevant microorganisms. This study investigates the use of commercially available resins for biotechnology applications in a lab environment. Special emphasis was placed on material reuse, ensuring compatibility with autoclaving, the most common sterilization technique in laboratories. An analytical assessment was performed to identify potential leaching of polymers or resin components into the surrounding medium during autoclaving and to examine whether the materials' mechanical properties are preserved post‐sterilization. The outcomes of this study may promote the broader use of 3D printing in biotechnology research by highlighting its sustainability, resource‐saving potential, versatility, and relevance for various laboratory applications. Practical application : 3D printing has emerged as a crucial asset in research, highlighted by its versatility and adaptability. The application of synthetic resins in biotechnological contexts using stereolithography‐based 3D printing technologies has been subject to considerable criticism in the past, primarily due to verified toxic effects. Although biocompatible resins are now commercially available, their functional performance and long‐term safety have not been sufficiently studied. This study aims to facilitate the integration of 3D printing materials into standard biotechnological laboratory workflows by examining the viability of autoclaving as a sterilization technique. Additionally, for the first time, the reusability of the materials was assessed by testing their mechanical properties after multiple uses and repeated autoclaving. This approach seeks to simplify the use of 3D printing in biotechnological research, thereby facilitating its integration into routine laboratory workflows and supporting further advancements in the field.
Zierberg et al. (Mon,) studied this question.