Arkema to show latest materials and partnerships at Formnext
HP 3D printing and Axtra3D continue to push development of powders and photopolymers
Arkema, a global leader in specialty materials, is poised to showcase several advancements in additive manufacturing at Formnext 2024, including the latest materials and collaborations with technology providers such as HP and Axtra3D.
Arkema’s role in additive manufacturing has been transformative, leveraging decades of expertise in specialty materials to deliver solutions that enhance performance while meeting the growing demand for sustainability.
The company’s extensive portfolio includes liquid resins for UV curing, thermoplastic powders for powder bed fusion, and thermoplastic pellets for filament extrusion. These materials enable precision, efficiency, and scalability across diverse industries, providing manufacturers with the tools needed to innovate responsibly.
A commitment to sustainability
At the heart of Arkema’s strategy is its commitment to sustainability, as evidenced by initiatives designed to reduce carbon footprints, optimize resources, and develop recyclable materials. Among its most notable innovations are bio-attributed resins, which combine high performance with environmental responsibility. For example, the Sarbio 7407 flexible acrylate oligomer contains 84% USDA-certified biobased content and delivers elastomeric performance for demanding applications. Similarly, the Sarbio 7405 toughening oligomer offers an excellent balance between hardness and flexibility while being 50% biobased.
Another standout is the N3xtDimension N3D-PR184-BIO material, which provides stiffness, accuracy, and easy processability with 53% certified biobased content. Arkema’s bio-based PA11 polyamide chain is yet another significant achievement, boasting a carbon footprint of just 1.3 kg CO2e/kg. Produced according to stringent ISO standards, this material is widely used in lightweight, high-performance applications, showcasing Arkema’s ability to combine sustainability with superior functionality.
Partnerships driving innovation
Collaboration has been key to Arkema’s success in advancing sustainability and innovation. Through partnerships with industry leaders, the company has developed game-changing materials and technologies that address the challenges faced by additive manufacturing users. One such breakthrough is the introduction of Orgasol PA12 powders, which offer the highest recyclability on the market for selective laser sintering (SLS) technology. These powders help reduce production costs significantly while delivering superior surface finishes and aesthetics.
Arkema’s partnership with HP has enabled the launch of highly reusable thermoplastic powders, enhancing the performance of HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology. Similarly, collaborations with Stratasys and Rapid Shape have expanded the use of Arkema’s UV materials, improving the precision and versatility of 3D printing across industries like automotive, aerospace, dental, and industrial manufacturing.
Arkema’s collaboration with Axtra3D exemplifies how partnerships can push the boundaries of innovation. The qualification of N3xtDimension flame retardant resins for Axtra3D’s Lumia X1 printer represents a significant step forward in addressing transportation and electronics applications. This collaboration combines Arkema’s material expertise with Axtra3D’s groundbreaking Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) technology, delivering exceptional print quality and efficiency.
Circular economy and on-demand printing
Arkema’s sustainability efforts extend beyond material development to include initiatives that promote a circular economy. The Virtucycle program is a prime example, establishing partnerships to collect and recycle used polyamide powders and printed parts. This approach reduces waste, conserves resources, and supports a more sustainable production ecosystem. By collaborating with companies like EOS, HP, and Materialise, Arkema ensures the viability of recycling efforts across the additive manufacturing industry.
Another notable initiative is the Easy3D platform, which simplifies material selection and connects customers with qualified suppliers for on-demand 3D printing services. This platform enhances efficiency and accessibility, empowering manufacturers to streamline their operations while accessing high-quality solutions tailored to their specific needs.
