WillowFlex Aims to Make the Future of 3D Printing Sustainable
Laura McQuarrie — July 29, 2015 — Eco
References: kickstarter & 3dprint
As much as the future of rapid prototyping with 3D printing looks bright, not all printing filaments are sustainable like this one from WillowFlex.
This additive manufacturing material uses a base of non-GMO corn starch to form an elastomeric bioplastic from compostable raw materials. After a 3D-printed creation has served its purpose, the materials can be set in the ground to decompose for a number of months. It's described that WillowFlex has the ability to "set a new baseline for filaments used in sensitive environments such as schools, homes and kitchen, and medical applications."
Other noteworthy eco-friendly printing filaments that are beginning to emerge include Agridust made from food waste, Refil made from used car dashboards and PET bottles and 3D Systems' water-soluable Infinity Rinse-Away.
This additive manufacturing material uses a base of non-GMO corn starch to form an elastomeric bioplastic from compostable raw materials. After a 3D-printed creation has served its purpose, the materials can be set in the ground to decompose for a number of months. It's described that WillowFlex has the ability to "set a new baseline for filaments used in sensitive environments such as schools, homes and kitchen, and medical applications."
Other noteworthy eco-friendly printing filaments that are beginning to emerge include Agridust made from food waste, Refil made from used car dashboards and PET bottles and 3D Systems' water-soluable Infinity Rinse-Away.
Trend Themes
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Compostable 3D Printing Filaments — The use of compostable raw materials as a base for 3D printing filaments opens up opportunities for eco-friendly and sustainable manufacturing processes.
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Eco-friendly Additive Manufacturing — The emergence of printing filaments made from food waste or recycled materials indicates a growing trend towards more environmentally-friendly additive manufacturing methods.
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Biodegradable 3D Printed Products — The ability to decompose 3D printed products made from compostable filaments offers new opportunities in creating sustainable products for sensitive environments such as schools, homes, and healthcare settings.
Industry Implications
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Manufacturing — Manufacturing industries can innovate by exploring the use of compostable filaments in 3D printing to create sustainable products and reduce waste.
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Healthcare — Hospitals and healthcare facilities can explore the use of compostable filaments in 3D printing to create eco-friendly medical tools and devices.
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Education — Educational institutions can use compostable 3D printing filaments to create eco-friendly classroom materials and reduce their environmental impact.
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