Aerogel-based 3D printed optofluidic waveguided multi-channel photocatalytic microreactors

This thesis investigates the use of additive 3D printing technology for creating micro photoreactors within aerogels. The study focuses on developing a low-cost 3D printing system tailored for aerogels and optimizing an ink formulation suitable for 3D printing processes. The research begins with customizing an off-the-shelf 3D printer to fabricate a low-cost system specifically for aerogel-based structures. This customized printer integrates a 3D-printed syringe pump system and custom software for accurate calibration and printing of sub-millimeter lines. The ink formulation designed for 3D printing comprises a silica aerogel starter solution with additives and titanium dioxide nanoparticles. Post-printing steps including gelation and solvent exchange refine the aerogel's structures enhancing stability for micro photoreactors designed to interact with water. Rheological characterization studies inform ink optimization ensuring durability and usability over time. The optimized 3D printing system and ink formulations demonstrate advancements in printing aerogels with additives where applications promise impactful solutions and future advancements in materials engineering and environmental sciences.