German specialty chemicals and plastics manufacturer Evonik (Essen; www.evonik.com) has proudly introduced its new line of flame-retardant materials under the brand name Infinam. These innovative products are distinguished by their PA 12-based composition, featuring carbon black-embedded 3D-printable powders designed for advanced applications.
At the recent Formnext24 additive manufacturing trade show held in Frankfurt, Germany, Evonik showcased two notable polyamide specialties: Infinam 6013 PA and the latest addition, Infinam 6014 P 3D-printable powders. Both variants stand out owing to their composition, which includes a “relatively substantial” amount of carbon black in the core of each particle, enhancing their performance characteristics significantly.
These newly developed powders are manufactured through a specialized precipitation process and are specifically engineered for powder bed fusion (PBF) techniques, such as Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). Evonik asserts that these powders exhibit exceptional flowability and achieve homogenous sintering, crucial for ensuring high-quality 3D-printed components.
According to the company, the high core-shell carbon black content promotes true pigmentation uniformity while effectively minimizing the visibility of surface abrasion and wear. Furthermore, these materials offer elevated resistance to ultraviolet rays and enhanced isotropic performance, making them highly versatile in various applications.
Due to these remarkable properties, the black powders are particularly well-suited for producing items that must endure elevated exposure to heat and light, making them ideal for high-demand sectors such as aerospace and automotive. This assertion was emphasized by Arnim Kraatz, director of powder bed fusion at Evonik.
Additionally, at Formnext24, Evonik announced the launch of HP 3D HR PA12 FR, a PA 12-based 3D-printable polymer developed in collaboration with US electronics giant HP (Palo Alto, California; www.hp.com), a longstanding partner in innovation.
All the PA 12 powders within this product series are produced at Evonik’s state-of-the-art facility in Marl, Germany, utilizing renewable energy sources. These products form a part of the company’s Smart Materials division, which is dedicated to innovative materials that promote resource-saving solutions and aim to replace conventional materials in various applications.
What are the specific advantages of using carbon black in the composition of Infinam 6013 PA and 6014 P for industrial applications?
**Interview with Dr. Laura Schmidt, Product Manager at Evonik, on Infinam 6013 PA and 6014 P**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Schmidt. Evonik has recently unveiled its new line of flame-retardant materials, the Infinam series. Can you tell us about the significance of this launch?
**Dr. Schmidt:** Thank you for having me! The introduction of our Infinam series marks a significant advancement in the world of 3D printing materials. By leveraging our expertise in specialty chemicals, we have developed these PA 12-based powders that not only meet industry standards for flame retardancy but also cater to the increasing demand for high-performance materials in advanced applications.
**Interviewer:** What distinguishes Infinam 6013 PA and the newer Infinam 6014 P from other materials currently available on the market?
**Dr. Schmidt:** Both Infinam 6013 PA and the latest Infinam 6014 P are characterized by their unique composition, which incorporates a substantial amount of carbon black embedded in the core of each particle. This feature significantly enhances their mechanical properties and flame resistance, making them ideal for demanding applications where safety and durability are paramount.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned showcasing these materials at the Formnext24 trade show. What was the reception from attendees and why is this event important for Evonik?
**Dr. Schmidt:** The reception at Formnext24 was incredibly positive. It’s a key event for the additive manufacturing community, and having the opportunity to engage with industry leaders and potential customers is invaluable. Attendees were particularly impressed by the performance characteristics of our new powders and the potential applications they could unlock, ranging from automotive to aerospace sectors.
**Interviewer:** Can you elaborate on the potential applications for these new materials?
**Dr. Schmidt:** Absolutely! The flame-retardant properties of Infinam 6013 PA and 6014 P make them suitable for environments where fire safety is critical. For example, they can be used in manufacturing components for public transport systems, electrical casings, and even housing parts in consumer electronics. Their robustness and heat resistance further expand their applicability in sectors that demand high-performance materials.
**Interviewer:** It’s fascinating to see how materials science is evolving. What’s next for Evonik in the realm of 3D printing and advanced materials?
**Dr. Schmidt:** We’re committed to continuing our innovation in the 3D printing space. Our focus will be on further improving existing materials, exploring new chemical formulations, and expanding our portfolio to meet specific customer needs. We also aim to enhance our collaborations in the additive manufacturing ecosystem to drive more dynamic applications forward.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for sharing these insights, Dr. Schmidt. It’s exciting to see Evonik leading the way in material innovation!
**Dr. Schmidt:** Thank you for having me. We’re excited about the future and look forward to the possibilities that lie ahead in additive manufacturing.