Utilizing 3D Printing in the Radiation Measurement Market: “3D-Printed Scintillators for Pre-Radiation Dose Measurement in Cancer Patients, Reducing Side Effects”

Summary:

  • Raymetrics is a company that develops next-generation metering solutions using 3D printing and AI.


  • By using Carima’s DLP 3D printer IMC, equipped with customizable features and a resin temperature control function, Raymetrics successfully created the world’s first custom-made plastic scintillator.


  • This achievement led to a significant reduction in production time, lower costs, and the realization of customized production compared to traditional methods.


  • In addition to standard measurement scintillators, they produced scintillators shaped like tumors in cancer patients, enabling precise measurement of the required radiation dose before treatment, significantly reducing side effects.


  • The localization of scintillator materials for radiation detection reduced reliance on imports, allowing for stable domestic supply.



Raymetrics successfully exported 1,200 units of medical 3D-printed plastic scintillators for radiation therapy to the Polish Curie National Research Institute and AGH University.

Raymetrics, a spin-off company from the lab of Professor Yong-gyun Kim at Hanyang University, specializes in next-generation metering solutions utilizing 3D printing and AI technologies. Based on their leading technology in 3D-printed plastic scintillators, they provide customized solutions, including tailored plastic scintillators for radiation therapy dose measurement and multipurpose radiation metering.


[Raymetrics CEO Yong-hyun Kim (left) and Senior Researcher Han-cheol Yang (right) Printing with Carima IMC]


Since the early stages of scintillator development, 3D printing has played a critical role for Raymetrics. Initially, they used imported DLP 3D printers from brands like A, but results were unsatisfactory. The resin heating system only heated internal air, and without adjustable light intensity, prints either did not adhere to the build plate or were incomplete. After discovering Carima at an exhibition, they switched to using the customizable desktop Carima IMC, optimized for research and development, and successfully produced plastic scintillators.

According to senior researcher Han-cheol Yang, the Carima IMC has a built-in resin VAT heater and temperature sensor that can heat resin up to 35°C, resolving the issues they encountered with the air-heating system used by other brands. Additionally, the ability to adjust light intensity allowed for the ideal print parameters, leading to successful production. With a larger build plate, Carima’s IMC could print up to 12 units at once, significantly improving productivity compared to A’s P model.


▶ Comparison between Carima IMC and A's P Model


Carima IMC
(DLP 3D Printing)
Traditional Production Method
Heating SystemResin VAT built-in heater,
temperature adjustable
Internal air heating method
Light Intensity ControlAdjustableNot adjustable
(fixed full light setting)
Build Plate Size124 x 70 x 130mm71 x 40 x 76mm
Production CapacityUp to 12 units at onceUp to 4 units at once


The scintillators produced by Raymetrics using 3D printing are radiation sensors that convert ionizing radiation like X-rays, gamma rays, electron beams, and neutron beams into visible light. The radiation information gathered by these scintillators can be processed into radiation images. These scintillators are widely used in medical imaging systems such as CT, PET, gamma cameras, and SPECT, as well as in radiation detectors, nuclear power plants, and industrial radiation sensors.


[Scintillator Radiation Test Flow]


Raymetrics differentiated their scintillators by leveraging the benefits of 3D printing. While off-the-shelf scintillators are standardized for general use, Raymetrics offers custom-made scintillators. This is particularly advantageous for cancer patients, as they can produce scintillators that match the shape of the tumor. By accurately measuring the total energy absorbed by surrounding organs before treatment, Raymetrics enables more efficient and precise treatment, minimizing overexposure and reducing side effects.


[Plastic Scintillator Matching the Shape of a Cancer Tumor Printed by Carima IMC]


Previously, traditional thermopolymer-based plastic scintillator production required lengthy production times and high costs. However, by using Carima’s DLP 3D printer IMC, Raymetrics was able to drastically reduce production time, lower costs, and achieve customizable production—key factors in their success. This advancement also reduced reliance on imported scintillators, ensuring a stable domestic supply and preventing market monopolies.


▶ CriteriaCarima IMC (3D Printing)Traditional Production Method


Carima IMC(DLP 3D Printing)Traditional Production Method
Cost1/3 the cost of traditional methods3 times higher than 3D printing
Production Time3-4 hours(3D Printing: 1hour)1-2 weeks
Production CapacityUp to 12 units1 unit
CustomizationPossibleNot possible


Raymetrics has garnered significant global interest in the radiation measurement market. In December of last year, they successfully exported 1,200 medical 3D plastic scintillators for radiation therapy to Poland’s Curie Research Institute and AGH University, marking a major achievement. This success was largely due to their ability to offer custom production at affordable prices with fast delivery.



[Patent Certificate for Plastic Scintillators and Polish Export Certificate]


While 3D printing in the medical industry has traditionally been used for producing customized medical prosthetics such as hearing aids, dentures, prosthetic limbs, and artificial arms, Raymetrics' successful 3D printing case has shown that the technology contributes broadly to reducing treatment side effects, preventing medical accidents, and improving the success rate of patient recovery.


Steps for 3D-Printing Tumor-Shaped Plastic Scintillators

  • Step 1: Obtain Patient Tumor Data
    The process begins with a CT scan of the patient's tumor to gather data needed for 3D printing the scintillator.

  • Step 2: Contouring
    Based on the CT images, the tumor's position, size, and outline are determined. This contour data is then saved as a 3D file.

  • Step 3: Slicing & 3D Printing
    The 3D object file undergoes slicing for optimal printing, and the scintillator is printed.

  • Step 4: Post-Processing (Cleaning & Curing)
    Finally, the printed scintillator undergoes cleaning and curing to complete the production process.


[Radiation Scintillator Printed by Carima IMC]


For those interested in Carima IMC’s capabilities—such as customizable settings, high-viscosity material compatibility, and research optimization—please feel free to reach out.


        IMC Features:

  1. High precision, repeatability, and 99% light uniformity
  2. Resin temperature control (up to 35°C)
  3. Adjustable light intensity and parameter settings for different materials
  4. Ability to print high-functionality materials (e.g., ceramics, high viscosity)
  5. Open material system (100% compatibility with third-party materials)




Content and Photos Provided by: Raymetrics
Written by: Carima