Advanced Materials Advanced Polymers Materials Photopolymer Resins

Mechnano’s C-Lite ESD resin passes NASA’s outgassing test

Davide SherNovember 17, 2023

1 minute read

Circular connectors and busbar fabricated using C-Lite - high temperature non-outgassing ESD resin

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Mechnano‘s C-Lite ESD resin for vat photopolymerization, developed in partnership with Tethon3D, has successfully passed NASA ASTM E595-77/84/90 outgassing tests. C-Lite is a high-temperature resistant ESD material, designed for SLA, DLP and LCP Additive Manufacturing (AM) systems. C-Lite is able to withstand temperatures of up to 225- degrees Celsius (437 degrees Fahrenheit), which opens the door to diverse applications that demand durability at high temperatures.

The successful completion of the outgassing tests brings promising prospects for AM, particularly in the fields of optics and electronics that operate in high-temperature, low-pressure environments or both.

Mechnano's C-Lite ESD resin for vat photopolymerization, developed with Tethon3D, passed NASA's outgassing tests “Non-metallic materials like polymers, adhesives, and rubbers release gasses, vapors, or volatile compounds when exposed to a heat and/or vacuum environments,” said Olga “Dr. O” Ivanova, Mechnano’s Director of Applications and Technology. “This phenomenon, known as outgassing, poses challenges as it leads to contamination, pressure fluctuations, and film buildup. Ultimately, this compromises the performance of components or renders them inoperable.”

The C-Lite ESD resin meets the criteria set by the NASA ASTM E595-77/84/90 test and qualifies as a non-outgassing material. Test results included: TML – 0.7%; CVCM: 0.02%; and water vapor recovery: 0.13%.

“C-Lite stands out for its impressive thermal and static-dissipative properties, alongside being a non-outgassing material. These attributes render it a highly desirable choice for various electronics applications, spanning from satellites and space-based equipment to medical devices and systems,” added Dr. Ivanova.

“The unique properties and potential of manufacturing with carbon nanotube (CNT) photopolymer materials truly excite us. Our collaboration with Mechnano has allowed us to address the industry demand in developing this high-performance material. We foresee broad industry applications that will expand and elevate global additive manufacturing,” also added Trent Allen, CEO of Tethon 3D