Instructions for Use (IFU) for Solvent-Soluble Sacrificial 3D Printed Resins

This document provides application-specific instructions for the use of solvent-soluble sacrificial photopolymer resin systems supplied by 3Dresyns®.

This document does not replace the general IFU and applies only to resin systems designed to be removed by dissolution in organic or aqueous solvents after printing.

Scope of application

This IFU applies to:

• solvent-soluble sacrificial resins used as supports, cores or temporary structures

• indirect manufacturing workflows

• multi-material or sequential processing routes

This IFU does not apply to:

• permanent structural resins

• water-soluble sacrificial systems unless explicitly specified

• dissolution using unvalidated solvents or conditions

Nature of solvent-soluble sacrificial resin systems

Solvent-soluble sacrificial resins are functional photopolymer systems designed to:

• provide sufficient mechanical integrity during printing and handling

• allow controlled removal using selected solvents

These materials are optimized for temporary functionality and are not intended for long-term structural or environmental resistance.

Dissolution behavior depends on:

• resin formulation and version

• degree of curing and crosslink density

• printed geometry and thickness

• solvent type, temperature, agitation and exposure time

Printing considerations

Compared to permanent resins, solvent-soluble sacrificial systems may show:

• altered curing kinetics

• sensitivity to overcuring, which may significantly reduce solubility

• reduced mechanical strength after printing

Exposure parameters must be calibrated to balance:

• sufficient stability during printing and handling

• efficient dissolution during removal

Excessive curing may hinder or prevent complete dissolution.

Design and geometry considerations

Sacrificial structures should be designed to:

• maximize solvent access to all areas intended for removal

• avoid enclosed or poorly vented cavities

• minimize unnecessary material volume

Thin sections and open geometries dissolve more efficiently than thick or enclosed features.

Post-printing handling

After printing:

• parts should be handled carefully to avoid premature fracture

• unnecessary mechanical stress should be avoided

• storage under dry and solvent-free conditions is recommended prior to dissolution

Unintended solvent exposure before the removal step may compromise structural integrity.

Dissolution and removal process

Dissolution is typically performed using:

• validated organic or aqueous solvent systems

• static immersion, gentle agitation or controlled solvent flow

Key considerations:

• solvent selection strongly influences removal efficiency

• elevated temperature may accelerate dissolution but must be validated

• aggressive mechanical force should be avoided to prevent damage to adjacent permanent structures

Complete removal may require extended exposure depending on geometry and curing degree.

Compatibility with surrounding materials

When solvent-soluble sacrificial resins are used together with permanent materials:

• solvent compatibility with the permanent material must be verified

• swelling, cracking or surface damage of the remaining structure must be avoided

Users are responsible for validating material compatibility under their specific conditions.

Residue control and rinsing

After dissolution:

• parts should be thoroughly rinsed using appropriate cleaning steps

• any residual sacrificial material or solvent must be fully removed

• multiple rinse cycles may be required for complex geometries

Incomplete removal may affect downstream processing or final part performance.

Environmental, health and safety considerations

Solvent-based dissolution introduces additional safety considerations.

Users must:

• follow applicable chemical handling and safety regulations

• use appropriate personal protective equipment

• ensure adequate ventilation and waste disposal

Compliance with local environmental and occupational safety regulations is the responsibility of the user.

Limitations and responsibilities

Solvent-soluble sacrificial resins are process-dependent materials.

Users are responsible for:

• validating dissolution efficiency for their specific geometry and solvent

• ensuring compatibility with permanent materials

• qualifying final parts for their intended application

3Dresyns does not assume responsibility for incomplete removal, solvent misuse or application-specific failures.

Relationship to other Instructions for Use

This IFU must always be used together with:

• Instructions for Use (IFU) & Printing Parameters for DLP & LCD printers

• any relevant printer-specific IFU

In case of discrepancy, the most application-specific IFU prevails.

Governing principle

Solvent-soluble sacrificial photopolymer resins provide temporary functionality within a multivariable manufacturing system. Dissolution behavior and final outcomes depend on formulation, processing, geometry and solvent conditions and must be validated by the user.