German chemical company Evonik has developed a new PEBA polymer powder for additive manufacturing. The material is known for its high elasticity and high strength and is compatible with a range of powder-based AM processes, including laser sintering (LS). High speed sintering (HSS) and adhesive injection.
The new powder consists of polyether block amide (PEBA), a thermoplastic elastomer with good resistance, strength and durability. It has been reported that parts that use 3D printed powders with innovative powders have good flexibility. Excellent chemical and durability, temperature range from -40 ° C to 90 ° C. Evonik said that its new AM powder is very suitable for the production of functional plastic prototypes and series of production parts.
In the development of PEBA powder, Evonik worked closely with German 3D printer manufacturer EOS to optimize the synthetic materials of its laser sintering system. The two companies have cooperated extensively and EOS is currently selling PEBA-based powder under the PrimePart ST product name. Evonik added that the material has been adopted by many service providers. Source: OFweek3D Print Network
Interestingly, while elastomers are compatible with most powder-based 3D printing technologies, including selective laser sintering, HSS and adhesive jetting, a powder-based AM technology is still not on the list: HP's Multi Jet Fusion ( MJF). Currently, the only approved material for the HP 3D printing platform is PA12, although the company has introduced an open material development kit to provide qualified polymer powder for its platform. Since Evonik is HP MDK Partners, maybe new PEBA-based powders are still being identified.
Winning innovative PEBA powder is the newest member of the growing portfolio of synthetic materials for 3D printing applications. The company is known for its polyamide 12 powder and produces all powder materials at its Marl Chemical Park plant.