Cost-Effective Bioreactor Housing: Material Optimization

Abstract

Bioreactor is the device that is being used extensively for in vitro experiments. It supports the investigation of the effects from various stimulations on the particular cells. The selection of appropriate materials for bioreactor housing is critical to ensure the performance and longevity of bioreactor systems. This study evaluates the suitability of five candidate materials-Polylactic Acid (PLA), Expanded Polyamide (ePA), Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified (PETG), and Acrylonitrile Butadiene (ABS) for bioreactor housing. The materials were subjected to continuous and cyclic submersion in 70% alcohol and tested for their mechanical properties, including Young's Modulus and stress behavior, as well as their hydrophobicity using contact angle testing. Results indicate that PLA is the most suitable material, exhibiting high resistance toward alcohol disinfection, stability under cyclic immersion, and significant hydrophobicity, making it ideal for bioreactor housing applications. The study provides insights into material selection, surface treatments, and their implications on bioreactor system efficiency.