Printing materials
3D printing can work with a wide variety of materials. However, some materials like metals or ceramics place very high demands on the printer, which is why plastic is the most commonly used material.
10. Additional Materials
Carbon
Filament infused with carbon creates extremely rigid and durable models. Materials like PLA, ABS, PETG, or Nylon are reinforced with carbon fibers.
GLOW
Glow-in-the-dark printing material enriched with phosphorescent particles that absorb light. These materials are usually creamy in color but glow greenish-yellow or blue in the dark. There are variants that are also colored during the day and emit a slight purple or red glow at night.
PMMA
PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), also known as plexiglass or acrylic glass, is a strong, lightweight, glossy, transparent thermoplastic that is impact-resistant and weather-resistant. It allows UV radiation to pass through and exhibits good optical and electrical insulation properties.
ESD
ESD (electrostatic discharge) filaments are designed for printing components of electronic devices that are exposed to the risk of damage due to electrostatic discharge. High dissipative properties of electric charge ensure the safety of integrated circuits and other electronic components, minimizing the risk of partial or permanent damage.
PVB
PVB (polyvinyl butyral) is mainly used as a thin film for interlayers in safety glass, characterized by exceptional strength, flexibility, and adhesion. The surface of PVB can be smoothed using alcohol, similarly to how ABS is treated with acetone, but without undesirable toxic fumes.
HIPS
HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene) is commonly used as a support material, often for ABS. Printing with HIPS requires a printer with at least two extruders - one for the structural material and one for support. The support material can be easily dissolved using limonene solvent.
PVA
PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) is also a support material that can be easily dissolved in water, making it advantageous for complex models or models with nearly enclosed cavities. It is used with printers equipped with a minimum of two extruders.