Nanodiamonds boost 3D printed polymer performance

Finnish nanodiamond manufacturer Carbodeon and Dutch 3D printing specialist Tiamet 3D have announced the first nanodiamond-enhanced filaments for 3D printing.
The Carbodeon/Tiamet 3D filaments are based on a jointly-patented technology which significantly improves the mechanical and thermal properties of 3D printed items.
“By joining forces we’ve already developed filaments with a 100 percent increase in tensile strength, improved printability, and better thermal properties,” said Mr Reid Larson, CEO of Tiamet 3D. “Printing also runs more quickly and more reliably with the addition of Carbodeon polymer-tailored nanodiamonds.”
“Nanodiamonds offer the potential to make 3D-printed components that perform as well as or better than comparable injection moulded components, but with massive cost reductions and production speed improvements, especially for prototype, on-demand and short run production,” said Carbodeon CEO Dr Vesa Myllymäki.
3D printing using improved-performance thermoplastics has potential in almost all manufacturing environments, but especially in electronics, automotive and aerospace industries. As well as improving thermal management, conductivity and tensile strength of the base polymer, nanodiamonds can increase the glass transition temperature of the end product or component to achieve more robust and reliable polymer products, suitable for more challenging environments.
The first Carbodeon/Tiamet 3D filaments will be PLA (polylactic acid) based, with further development focused on higher-performance thermoplastics. The companies have signed a strategic partnership agreement on joint filament development, along with an agreement for Carbodeon to supply nanodiamond materials to Tiamet 3D.
“Product development partnerships with innovative companies like Tiamet 3D are a key part of Carbodeon’s global growth strategy,” said Dr Myllymäki.
The newly developed PLA filament product will be available both from Carbodeon and Tiamet 3D. Carbodeon filament products will be sold under its uDiamond® brand.