In this week’s 3DExpress, we highlight notable developments in the medical sector. In the United States, researchers at the University of Minnesota have successfully 3D printed a new type of skin model to advance surgical training. In Germany, a hospital team in Dessau reported the first successful implantation of a bioresorbable 3D printed skull. Beyond healthcare, we also examine the introduction of a new concrete 3D printer and a multi-metal printing process set to broaden industrial applications. Some positive updates for the medical and industrial fields!
Simulated Skin for Surgical Practice
Researchers from the University of Minnesota 3D printed simulated human tissue for medical training. Previously, these models have been simple, rigid tissue simulants. The new technique, by contrast, can mimic the directional strength, softness and stretchiness found in real tissues like skin. Remarkably, they also printed microcapsules in the tissue, containing a liquid to mimic blood. The microcapsules prevent the blood from drying out or interfering with the printing process. In a preliminary study, surgeons found that these new surgical models had improved tactile feedback and response to cutting compared to conventional models. Going forward, the team will explore printing other organ models, with the aim to advance surgical training.
3D printed simulated skin for training (Photo Credit: McAlpine Research Group)
A Successful Cranial Implant in Germany
The Municipal Clinic of Dessau, Germany, successfully performed an innovative operation: a bioresorbable cranial implant in the patient. The head physician of the Neurosurgery Clinic, Prof. Dr. Klaus Zweckberger, described this method as a true paradigm shift in neurosurgery. He emphasized: “We can not only treat patients safely, but also stimulate natural bone growth. This eliminates the need for lifelong use of foreign material.” Under the direction of Dr. Henrik Giese, the patient received a completely new skull that, over time, will fuse with the bone and promote bone reconstruction. As Giese emphasizes: “The precision of the implant was impressive: it integrated into the existing cranial structure like a custom-made key. The combination of 3D printing, bioresorbable material, and autologous bone marrow opens up completely new perspectives in reconstructive medicine.”
Prof. Dr. Klaus Zweckberger and Dr. Henrik Giese (photo credits: SKBS)
A New 3D Concrete Printer
As the use of additive manufacturing becomes increasingly widespread in the construction sector, the number of players is increasing, each developing a more reliable, faster, and safer solution. Among the new faces on the market, we can mention Coral, which will unveil its Coral 3DCP Gen25 concrete printer for the first time in early October. Mass-produced, it is easily transportable and features advanced automation. According to the company, it is ready for use and deployment worldwide!
On the left, the 3D concrete printer; on the right, the layer-by-layer process (photo credits: ICE Coral)
New Multi-Metal 3D Printing Process from ETH Zurich
In September 2025, ETH students presented an innovative multi-metal 3D printer. The prototype allows for simultaneous printing of different metals in a single step, with a rotating platform continuously feeding the powder and fusing it using a laser. This eliminates traditional changeover processes, saving materials and reducing waste. Six students developed this machine over nine months as part of the “Rapture” project. This process is particularly suitable for cylindrical components such as rocket nozzles, which require different material properties. Manufacturing time is significantly reduced compared to conventional processes. ETH has already filed a patent, and the prototype was nominated for the Spark Award 2025. Technical challenges included the precise coordination of the laser, powder, and gas supply, as well as the gas flow to prevent oxidation. The technology can currently be used for components with a maximum diameter of 20 cm and is expected to be extended to other fields, including aeronautics, aerospace and mechanical engineering.
Photo Credits: ETH Zurich
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*Cover Photo Credit: Getty Images