Experimental Investigation of Blood Mimicking Fluid Viscosity for Application in 3D-Printed Medical Simulator

Abstract

Blood mimicking fluid (BMF) is blood that accurately mimics human blood. BMF is commonly used in 3D printed medical simulators for pre-surgical planning and simulation or intraoperative orientation to assist surgeons on cardiac surgical procedures. This research aims to develop a newly formulated BMF containing polysaccharide particles via varying the percent composition of xanthan gum-starch-water-glycerol-contrast agent mixture. The viscosity of the formulated BMF is compared with human blood and observed. A total of 10 BMF samples consisting of different components and composition ratios is prepared and the viscosity of each sample is measured at shear rates ranging from 0s-1 to 1000s-1. The results are tabulated and compared with human blood. Based on the results of the experiments conducted, the addition of polysaccharide particles was found to affect the viscosity of the BMF. The BMF sample with a composition of water 59.98 vol%, glycerol 40 vol%, 0.01 wt% xanthan gum and 0.01 wt% starch shows the smallest viscosity percentage difference when compared to the viscosity of actual blood. Viscosity plateau values was found at 3.71± 0.34 mPa.s which is within the range of actual normal human whole blood viscosity.