# Mechanical Properties and Material Characteristics of 3D-Printed Titanium Capsules for Cancer Drug Delivery Applications

## TL;DR

This study evaluates 3D-printed titanium capsules for cancer drug delivery, showing they are strong, safe, and suitable for personalized therapy.

## Contribution

The study introduces 45° printing angle as optimal for maximizing compressive strength in 3D-printed titanium drug capsules.

## Key findings

- Capsules printed at 45° showed the highest compressive strength, exceeding human bone tissue resistance.
- Damage from mechanical loading did not produce sharp edges or loose fragments, ensuring in-body safety.
- High surface roughness enhances tissue integration and reduces capsule migration after implantation.

## Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess the mechanical and material properties of porous titanium capsules, produced by 3D printing via the DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering) technique based on their potential application as carriers for anticancer drugs. The study used capsules made from the Ti-6Al-4V alloy, and analyzes the impact of geometric parameters, structural features, and printing angles (0°, 45°, and 90°) on their compressive strength. A total of 36 capsules were tested, 18 of type KTD and 18 of type KTM, each in two loading directions. The surface roughness and damage characteristics resulting from mechanical loading have also been evaluated. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using Student’s t-test. The results show that the capsules printed at an angle of 45° are characterized by the highest compressive strength, while their resistance significantly exceeds the values typical of human bone tissue. Additionally, the observed damage does not lead to the formation of sharp edges or loose fragments, which confirms the safety of their use in the body. The high surface roughness promotes tissue integration and limits capsule migration after implantation. The analyses confirm the potential of 3D-printed titanium capsules as effective and safe drug carriers in personalized anticancer therapy.