Each year 24,000 tons of carbon fiber waste is sent to landfill every year; however an expanded partnership and recycling program between Braskem and Vartega Inc., may mean that 3D printing customers will have more sustainable filament options.
Braskem produces polyolefins and biopolymers and Vartega recycles advanced materials including carbon fiber reinforced plastics, for this new 3D Printing Filament Recycling Program. Recently, Braskem expanded its 3D printing product portfolio to include new carbon fiber reinforced polypropylene filament for 3D printing (“CF-PP”) (“FL900PP-CF”). This product is made from 100% recycled carbon fiber supplied by Vartega and optimized for use with Braskem’s polypropylene. According to a Braskem press release, every box of Braskem’s carbon fiber reinforced polypropylene filament sold will include information about how to recycle the used carbon fiber filament through this program.
“We are so pleased to provide Braskem with sustainable high performance carbon fiber for their new 3D printing filament,” said Andrew Maxey, Vartega CEO, in the press release. “And by leveraging our recycling capabilities, Braskem and Vartega are able to provide an end-to-end solution for 3D printing customers. This collaboration is an excellent demonstration of what’s possible with modern supply chains and novel solutions to traditional waste problems. Landfill is not the only option, and Vartega is unlocking a captive supply of valuable materials in failed prints, support structures, and filament scrap.”
Braskem appears to be committed to a carbon neutral circular economy. In 2018, Braskem committed to 100% of plastic packaging being reused, recycled, or recovered by 2040. As part of its evolving sustainable development strategy, Braskem also announced additional commitments to mitigate climate change, eliminate plastic waste, and provide solutions for recycled products in its markets.
“Our new Filament Recycling Program with Vartega is part of Braskem’s broader strategy to provide solutions for recycled products and eliminate plastic waste,” stated Jason Vagnozzi, Braskem Commercial Director of Additive Manufacturing, in the press release. “We are excited to partner with Vartega and leverage their capabilities to ensure that each spool of carbon fiber reinforced polypropylene is properly disposed and does not end up in landfills. Plastic plays a vital role in society, and we believe that programs such as this will allow plastics to continue their role in advancing innovation and providing sustainable solutions.”
According to the press release, FL00PP-CF is made using 100% recycled carbon fiber with the same performance you would expect from virgin carbon fiber. Braskem’s carbon fiber reinforced polypropylene filaments are available in both 1.75 mm and 2.85 mm diameters to fit a wide range of 3D printer applications and are available for online purchase through M. Holland’s eStore at www.mholland3d.com/products/braskem-cf-pp.
