October 9, 2024 15:10

The Japanese chemical group Asahi Kasei has signed a memorandum of understanding with Italy-based Aquafil to jointly develop a filament material for 3D printing, based on Econyl, a chemically recycled polyamide 6 reinforced with cellulose nanofibers (CNF).

The project is supported by Itochu Group, which invested in Aquafil two years ago to develop the production and commercialization of Econyl, a polyamide obtained from raw materials derived from the depolymerization of post-consumer and pre-consumer scraps, such as used fishing nets, old carpets, and industrial waste.

Asahi Kasei's cellulose nanofiber, derived from cotton linter waste, offers high heat resistance and is more easily recyclable than the fiberglass commonly used to reinforce plastics.

Pellets or filaments of this compound achieve superior formability and strength, making them suitable for use in automotive and aeronautical applications.

The new CNF/Econyl compound will be presented at the Fakuma and Formnext trade fairs, which will be held in Germany between October and November. Asahi Kasei expects to begin commercial testing of the new filament in the third quarter of 2025 in Europe, the United States, and Japan.

© Polimerica -  Reproduction prohibited, all rights reserved