# Advancing imprinted polymers: Pre-orientation, self-assembly, and porosity in 3D printing

## TL;DR

This paper explores how 3D printing can improve molecularly imprinted polymers for better compound isolation in various scientific fields.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a new method combining 3D printing and oriented imprinting to create more effective and scalable MIPs.

## Key findings

- 3D printing allows for the creation of monolithic, porous MIPs with uniform binding sites.
- The method offers tunable architectures and easier production of MIPs for industrial use.
- This approach addresses current limitations in imprinting technologies and opens new research avenues.

## Abstract

Targeted isolation of specific compounds from complex matrices remains a central challenge across analytical, biomedical, and environmental sciences. Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) offer a promising solution by enabling specific and reproducible binding of analytes. However, conventional imprinting techniques often suffer from heterogeneous binding sites and limited spatial control, restricting their broader utility. We see great potential in combining polymerization-induced phase-separation with photocuring 3D printing and oriented imprinting to fabricate monolithic, hierarchically porous MIPs with homogeneous and accessible binding moieties. This emerging platform enables the design of highly tailorable materials featuring distinct specificity and tunable architectures while being straightforward to produce, adapt, and scale. Beyond addressing current limitations, this strategy opens new avenues for translating imprinting technologies into industrially relevant formats. In this perspective, we outline the conceptual and technological implications of 3D-printed oriented MIPs, discuss their potential across disciplines, and highlight key challenges and opportunities for future research and application.

Chemistry; Molecular imprinted technique; Materials science; Polymers