Recycling-friendly 3D-printing
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This bio-sourced resin for 3D printing can be recycled in a circular process
Spotted: Photopolymer resins, which harden – or cure – when exposed to light, are commonly used in the manufacture of 3D-printed parts. But even though they’re high-performing, the photocurable resins currently in use also rely on non-renewable resources and produce cross-linked polymers that are difficult to recycle. Now, researchers from the University of Birmingham may have a greener solution.
Led by Professor Andrew Dove, who specialises in sustainable polymer chemistry at the university, the research team has developed a resin made from an entirely bio-sourced feedstock. The new photopolymer resin can be printed at high resolution and broken back down to its constituent parts, recycled, and reprinted – only requiring a small amount of photoinitiator to make it ready for reuse.
The feedstock for the process is made from lipoic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid. Two monomers of lipoic acid are combined to create the resin, which can then be recycled either back into the monomers, or to the original molecule. The resin can also be customised and is compatible with light-initiated 3D printing techniques such as stereolithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP), and Inkjet Printing.
Professor Dove told Springwise that the team’s research is driven by “environmental sustainability, seeking to create a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based resins that can perform at an industrial standard while being completely recyclable.” In tests, the resin showed it could successfully complete two recycles, and the team anticipates further recycling is possible.
With a patent already filed for the technology, the researchers are now also seeking investment or licensing partners. According to Professor Dove, the next steps will likely involve further development and commercialisation in areas of potential application, including industries that do rapid prototyping, optical and electronic devices, construction and architecture, or fashion and jewellery.
Written By: Lisa Magloff