Introducing 3D-potting: a novel production process for artificial membrane lungs with superior blood flow design

Abstract Currently, artificial-membrane lungs consist of thousands hollow fiber membranes where blood flows around the fibers and gas inside fibers, achieving diffusive exchange. At both ends interspaces between plastic housing are filled with glue to separate from phase. During a uniaxial centrifugation process, forms “potting.” The shape cured potting is then determined by limiting design possibilities leading unfavorable stagnation zones associated clotting. In this study, new multiaxial process was developed, expanding possible shapes allowing for completely module designs potentially superior flow guidance within margins. Two-phase simulations in conceptual artificial were performed explore biaxial determine suitable parameter sets. A corresponding setup built prove feasibility experimentally validate four designs, resulting good agreement simulations. summary, study shows greater variety shapes, eliminating inefficient more favorable conditions lungs. Graphic abstract