Clariant creates 3D printing materials business

Specialty chemical maker Clariant has launched a new dedicated 3D printing business to meet the demand of the fast-changing additive manufacturing market for premium and customized 3D printer filaments.

In a statement, Clariant noted that additive manufacturing (AM) “is growing at a rapid pace globally, with over 28% average annual growth for each of the last 7 years, and generating a total of US$6 billion in sales in 2017.” “AM has moved from a niche technology to an industry where unique products are produced, for example today over 90% of the plastic shells for in-the-ear hearing aids are manufactured using AM,” Clariant said. “Products manufactured using AM are often complex end-use parts such as air ducts, drones, lights, and parts for manufacturing equipment. These products can be enhanced with tailored high quality and ready-to-print materials that also withstand the wear and tear of prolonged usage.”

Clariant 3D printer filament.

The goal of the new Clariant 3D printing business is to leverage the company’s experience in tailoring polymers for a broad range of end market applications with pigments, additives and masterbatches, to provide high-grade, 3D printer filaments and specially made solutions. “Clariant 3D prints and tests all of its materials to ensure printability and the required consistent high quality,” Clariant said. “Extensive material, application and production expertise allows Clariant to work closely with customers on polymer, additive and colorant selection to address typical end-use conditions such as weathering (sunlight, UV exposure), flame retardancy and electrical properties.”

In addition to tailored materials, a portfolio of high quality standard material will also be offered, Clariant said. The 3D printing materials are manufactured by Clariant and are available in flexible lot sizes to meet the specific needs of customers.

“At Clariant we have all the capabilities to produce high-grade ready-to-print 3D printer filaments,” said Richard Haldimann, head of new business development at Clariant. “We are experienced in delivering specialized and tailored solutions to customers via our plastics and coatings businesses. The existing Clariant production infrastructure provides the 3D printing business with a global footprint to offer desired 3D printer filaments across the world.”