Optimizing high accuracy 8K LCD 3D-printed Hollow Microneedles: Methodology and ISO-7864:2016 Guided Evaluation for Enhanced Skin Penetration

Abstract

Microneedle research has surged due to its potential for user-friendly and painless drug delivery. Their ability to pierce the skin and adaptability to skin surfaces underscore their relevance to ergonomic drug delivery systems. Therefore rapid, precise and affordable prototyping is crucial for the advancement of this research field. Among fabrication techniques, 3D printing remains the most agile, particularly with the recent technological progress in high precision 8K LCD printers, providing superior geometric quality. This study focuses on optimizing hollow microneedle designs and conducting ISO 7864:2016 (Sterile hypodermic needles for single-use requirements and test methods)-guided testing to enable objective comparisons among structures. Specifically, relevant features, including hollow needle geometries, tip angles, wall thicknesses and print settings of microneedles, are investigated using a high-resolution liquid crystal display (LCD) printing platform. In the absence of specific ISO standards for transdermal microneedles, this research aims to establish guidelines modelled after ISO-7864:2016 for hypodermic needles. A detailed exploration of a low-cost, accessible test setup design is presented. This contributes to the establishment of benchmarks for microneedle design and evaluation practices through ISO-guided testing methodologies. Beyond scientific contributions, these efforts aim to ensure safer and more effective microneedle applications in healthcare.

Keywords: Microneedles, 3D-printing, drug delivery, test setup, ISO-7864

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005072