20 July 2019

3D Printed DIYbio Hardware Updates

July 20, 2019 | F.Lab 

It's been a while since we've posted here. Our DIYbio hardware updates are usually posted on the Applied Technology Lab blog here and all the files and build instructions are in ProgressTH's Thingiverse DIYbio collection here.



Since our last post which was about version 2 of our centrifuge, we've developed a larger orbital shaker, a larger and more powerful magnetic stirrer, and version 3 of our centrifuge.

Maybe the coolest thing is that many of the ideas behind our updates come from people on Thingiverse making and modifying our designs. The use of DC motors and cheap motor speed controllers was something we didn't think about (because we didn't have them on hand) but was such a great idea we ordered and incorporated them into newer designs.

We've also tested a way of preserving red cabbage for pH testing by soaking coffee filter paper in blended red cabbage and water, then drying it out.


By cutting the paper into small squares and mixing it with whatever liquid you're testing, or distilled water mixed with a solid/semi-solid (like a piece of soap), the water will change accordingly, just as it does with the fresh red cabbage protocol discussed here.


We've actually used the orbital shaker to mix up test samples. If it is something like lime juice the result is almost instant and no shaking is really required. Soap can take a while to dissolve and provide a clear result. 

F.Lab is Thailand's first DIYbio collective. You can follow the co-founders' work at Raitong Organics here, InsightPact here, and the Applied Technology Lab blog here

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