Leveraging its lengthy experience in tailoring polymers for a broad range of end-market applications, Swiss speciality chemicals producer Clariant (Muttenz; www.clariant.com) is launching a 3D printing business to provide high-quality products for premium and customised printer filaments. According to a 2017 report from Wohlers Associates (Fort Collins, Colorado / USA; www.wohlersassociates.com), additive manufacturing is rapidly growing, with over 28% annual growth for each of the past 7 years, and generated more than USD 6.0 bn in sales in 2017. Clariant said the new business will support the fast-changing additive manufacturing technology, which supplies complex end-use products such as air ducts, drones, lights and parts for manufacturing equipment. These products can be enhanced with tailored high quality and ready-to-print materials that also withstand the wear and tear of prolonged usage, the Swiss group said.

Clariant said it will work closely with customers on polymer, additive and colourant selection to address typical end-use conditions such as weathering, flame retardancy and electrical properties. Along with specially tailored materials, it also will offer a portfolio of “high-quality standard material.” The 3D printing materials are will be made available in flexible lot sizes to meet specific needs of customers. Richard Haldimann, head of New Business Development, said the speciality chemicals group “has all the capabilities to produce high-grade ready-to-print 3D printer filaments.”