As the world focuses more on climate change and ways to reduce CO2 emissions, the 3D printing industry is also making its mark. Polymaker, a 3D printing materials company, recently added a PLA-based filament to its lineup: PolyTerra PLA. Unlike traditional PLAs, which are more environmentally friendly than other counterparts but still leave a footprint during the production process, this new filament is infused with organic elements that make it better for the environment while still being tough.
The company, which is dedicated to minimizing waste, was able to create the new material by reducing the raw PLA via incorporating organic materials. The research team focused on elements that would provide the same mechanical properties as typical PLA— a biodegradable polymer made from natural resources, such as starch extracted from corn, sugar beet or wheat—including being impact-resistant and durable, while ensuring a quality print.
Since the new filament still contains PLA, it can be used in the same way as standard PLA and in almost any extrusion-based 3D printer with PLA settings. Along with not creating concerns about warping or requiring a heated bed, the filament offers a few extra bonuses. It has a smooth, matte finish that hides layer lines and easily handles parts with bridges or overhangs. The supports require no tools for removal. The filament is also suitable for printing various complex geometries.
Available in 14 colors, PolyTerra sands quickly and easily without affecting the surface finish. The printed parts also have pores, which enables paints to form a stronger bond. The filament can withstand temperatures up to 100°C, while finished parts can only withstand a temperature of 60°C due to filament changes during the printing process.
Before releasing the new filament, Polymaker had a third-party lab conduct a compatibility test. While it degraded faster than other PLA materials at 77 percent after 45 days, it still achieved ISO 14855-1 certification. Degradation depends on certain temperatures and humidity levels, as well as the size and thickness of parts. Biodegradability tests are currently being conducted.
While this might not be a solution for prints requiring additional mechanical properties, it could be ideal for those seeking a more cost-effective solution. PolyTerra PLA sells for $19.99 per kg.
Along with making the filament itself more environmentally friendly, the company is making a mark in reducing its carbon footprint by eliminating unnecessary packaging and using recycled cardboard for the spool. The company is also working with One Tree Planted. Polymaker is planting one tree for each spool sold local to the point of purchase. Each of those trees will absorb 22 kg of carbon dioxide after maturing.
Polymaker isn’t just seeking to be a better producer when it comes to filaments and packaging. It recently teamed with Covestro, a high-performance polymer manufacturer, to enhance the production process. The two companies developed a process for 3D printing fabrics. Using TPU-based polymers, 90A and 95A, they were able to 3D print the initial 2D layers, at approximately two to five layers, then use them on the traditional line. This resulted in no excess fabric being discarded and the potential for more innovative designs.
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