formnext 2019: Evonik develops thermoplastic elastomers based on innovative copolyesters for powder-based 3D printing technologies
Evonik has developed two new copolyester powders to meet the growing demands of the 3D printing industry.
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The result of Evonik’s acquisition of Structured Polymers technology, these innovative, high-performance materials complement the existing portfolio of polyamide-based powder formulations. Customers now have an even broader spectrum of products available to them, encompassing everything from flame-retardants to elastic, ready-to-use materials.
Tough yet flexible
The new copolyester powders are highly elastic and flexible, yet exhibit excellent recovery. The powders are available in white or black depending on the application, and are suitable for use in common powder-based 3D printing technologies, such as selective laser sintering (SLS). At processing temperatures, the flow characteristics of the new powder formulations are also impressive, allowing manufacturers to make efficient use of the full installation height of the powder bed during the 3D printing process.
Compared to other flexible materials available on the market for SLS, the new, ready-to-use copolyesters from Evonik remain tough and flexible after printing, with no sacrifice in surface quality.
Powder material in black and white
3D parts are typically produced in white and then dyed depending on the application. In addition to white, Evonik’s new copolyesters are now available as a black powder as well so that parts can be printed directly in that color.
Applications for Evonik’s newly developed material range from athletic equipment, such as individual protectors for extreme athletes, to sophisticated technical components and functional design objects.
The new powder materials are scheduled for market launch in the first quarter of 2020.
Over 20 years of material expertise
The 3D printing market is booming, with growth rates in the double digits. Within this market, Evonik is the world’s leading manufacturer of polyamide (PA) 12 powders, which have been used in additive production technologies for over 20 years now. In addition to its PEEK filament and PA 12 powders, the company’s product portfolio also includes flexible PEBA powders and a wide array of additives such as dispersing agents, flow enhancers, and reactive modifiers.
Learn more about Evonik’s additive manufacturing activities by visiting us at formnext in Frankfurt am Main, November 19 – 22, booth C71, hall 12.1
Further information
Company information
Evonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The focus on more specialty businesses, customer-oriented innovative prowess and a trustful and performance-oriented corporate culture form the heart of Evonik’s corporate strategy. They are the lever for profitable growth and a sustained increase in the value of the company. Evonik benefits specifically from its customer proximity and leading market positions. Evonik is active in over 100 countries around the world. In fiscal 2018, the enterprise with more than 32,000 employees generated sales of €13.3 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €2.15 billion from continuing operations.
About Resource Efficiency
The Resource Efficiency segment is led by Evonik Resource Efficiency GmbH and produces high performance materials and specialty additives for environmentally friendly as well as energy-efficient systems to the automotive, paints & coatings, adhesives, construction, and many other industries. This segment employed about 10,000 employees, and generated sales of around €5.5 billion in 2018 from continuing operations.
Disclaimer
In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.
