Melt electro-writing system and corresponding method

Abstract

A system for electro-writing of a polymer melt comprises a print-head and a feed mechanism configured to controllably feed solid polymer base material towards the print-head, wherein the print-head comprises a nozzle, a heater and an insulating spacer, wherein the print-head is configured to eject the polymer melt via the nozzle, wherein the nozzle is configured to be held at a selectable electric potential, wherein the heater is arranged in the print-head and proximate the nozzle, wherein the heater is configured to heat the solid polymer base material beyond its melting point to create the polymer melt in the print-head, wherein insulating spacer is arranged between the heater and the nozzle, wherein the insulating spacer electrically insulates the heater and the nozzle, and wherein the insulating spacer is at least partially surrounded by the heater.