03. Oct 2014
3D printing increases application options for bioplastics
Joining a select, but growing group of companies who have discovered the potential of biopolymers for 3D printing, Biome Bioplastics launched its new biobased material for 3D printing at the TCT Show 2014, the leading event dedicated to 3D printing, additive manufacturing and product development.
Made from plant starches, Biome3D is a biodegradable plastic that combines easy processing and a superior print finish, while offering much higher print speeds. Biome Bioplastics developed the new material in partnership with 3Dom Filaments.
3D printing has been heralded as an important step towards more sustainable manufacturing. Potential environmental benefits include reduced transport emissions from lighter materials that can be developed closer to point of purchase, more efficient use of raw materials, and reduced number of parts needed for assembly. 3D printing also gives the ability to produce products on demand and to customize and optimize parts to improve efficiency.
Plant-based plastics are already a popular choice for 3D printing because they are much easier to work with during processing, and are food safe and odor free. They are a great example of how sustainable alternatives can gain market share based on their performance, rather than just their ‘green credentials’. However, oil-based printing filaments are still used because they have a higher softening point and make more flexible models that will bend before they break.
Biome3D combines the benefits of both plant and oil-based printing filaments and demonstrates that high performance plant-based plastics can be the ideal material for the 3D printing industry. Biome3D offers a superior finish and flexibility, with ease of processing and excellent printed detail. In addition, and perhaps most importantly for the industry, it runs at much higher print speeds, reducing overall job times.
Biome Bioplastics, headquartered in Southampton, UK, is firmly committed to the development of innovative, yet sustainable materials.
Last year Biome Bioplastics launched the first compostable solution for single-serve coffee pods, one of the fastest growing segments of the food and drinks industry. The current partnership with 3Dom Filaments represents their first move into the 3D printing industry. (KL)
www.biomebioplastics.com