Mechnano, Bomar introduce T50B low-viscosity masterbatch for 3D resins

Mechnano (Mesa, Ariz., U.S.), in partnership with Bomar (Torrington, Conn., U.S.), has released the T50B masterbatch, a specialized low-viscosity product targeting additive manufacturing (AM) industry formulators. The masterbatch uses Mechnano’s proprietary technology, known as D’Func (discrete, dispersed and functionalized carbon nanotubes), enabling the development of AM resins with enhanced mechanical properties and uniform electrical performance on a nanoscale (the company also released the E35B+ masterbatch for similar applications).

“Mechnano R&D teams continue to enhance our technologies and expand our product portfolio for the AM industry,” Mechnano director of applications and Technology Dr. Olga “Dr.O” Ivanova says. “The initial feedback from beta customers has been positive, demonstrating enhanced mechanical performance, in addition to ESD [electrostatic discharge] capabilities.”

The T50B is a masterbatch with high carbon nanotube (CNT) concentration and low viscosity, designed to seamlessly blend into resin formulas without the need for intensive shear mixing processes. The proprietary blend of Bomar resins used for the dispersion base enables a broad range of resin types and technologies, such as tough, flexible and elastic AM resins suitable for stereolithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP) or jetting print methodologies. The electric resistivity of the final formulation can be adjusted from 10⁵-10¹⁰ Ω, making it optimal for the development of low surface resistivity resins. Furthermore, incorporating the T50B into tough and flexible formulas has demonstrated enhancements in mechanical performance such as tensile strength and modulus.

“This new dispersion is exactly what the industry has been looking for — a versatile, highly concentrated dispersion that enables maximum formulation flexibility and provides excellent ESD properties, all while maintaining printability in UV-based print systems,” David Robitaille, global brand director for Bomar, adds.

The T50B product offered by Mechnano incorporates the company’s D’Func technology, which specifically targets the problem of clumped and roped CNTs present in materials, with its primary objective to enhance both the mechanical and electrical performance of AM resins. By effectively eliminating these clumps and functionalizing CNTs, Mechnano ensures the stability of its CNT-based masterbatches.

Mechnano constantly expands its range of products, and T50B can be obtained either directly from Mechnano or through its partner, Bomar.