BOSTON, June 1 (UPI) -- Material scientists at MIT have created tough biocompatible materials, called hydrogels, using a 3-D printer. Like a super strong sponge, the hydrogels are soft, wet and intricately patterned.
The structures feature water-soluble molecules encased in rubbery polymer strands. The strands are organized in woven networks and layered, creating a robust and tough material with a variety of real world applications.