# Printability of Bioinks: A Consolidated Definition for Additive Manufacturing

## TL;DR

This paper proposes a unified definition of printability in bioink additive manufacturing to address inconsistencies in research.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a comprehensive definition of printability that includes rheology, geometry, shape fidelity, and cell viability.

## Key findings

- Current definitions of printability lack consistency and often omit cell viability.
- An integrative definition is proposed to include all stages of production and functionality.
- The new definition aims to improve consensus and guide future bioprinting applications.

## Abstract

Printability is a key concept extensively used in the
context of
bioinks for additive manufacturing. However, the absence of a universally
accepted definition has led to inconsistencies in its application
across studies. Some researchers use the term interchangeably with
shape fidelity or shape accuracy, while others incorporate multiple
aspects, including rheological properties and extrudability, into
its definition. In some cases, the omission of cell viability further
limits the scope of current research. As a result, studies that connect
rheological properties to printability or employ physical and mathematical
models to predict outcomes often fail to capture the complete manufacturing
process due to the lack of definitional consistency. This review examines
literature from 2011 to 2024, identifying key thematic clusters that
contribute to a more robust understanding of printability. We propose
an integrative definition that encompasses not only rheological properties
across all stages of production but also geometry, shape fidelity,
shape accuracy, and functionalitywith particular emphasis
on cell viability. This broader definition aims to foster greater
consensus and guide future applications of 3D printing in bioprinting
and other additive manufacturing fields.