These guys want to make 3D printing environmentally friendly: here’s how

There’s no doubting that 3D printing is a world-changing technology, but there are questions around exactly how environmentally friendly it is, especially when plastic is used as a printing material. Two US entrepreneurs are trying to alleviate at least some of those concerns by engineering 3D printing filament made from recycled plastic.

Gerald Galazin and Mark Sherman, founders of Chicago-based startup Dimension Polymers reckon their solution could reduce the carbon emissions traditionally associated with making 3D printer filament by as much as 66%.

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The two have been refining their formula since the launch of the company in June of 2014 and, following rounds of beta testing, claim that they have something ready to take to market. In order to facilitate that, they’ve launched a Kickstarter campaign, with the aim of raising US$20 000.

“Working with recycling companies, filament manufactures, the Makerspace community, and independent hobbyists,” says Galazin, “has allowed us to continually receive valuable feedback to help improve our product. The process has been fairly organic and we have been lucky enough to build great relationships with our partners, some of whom will ultimately be customers.”

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Sherman meanwhile reckons that having an environmentally sustainable filament could actually help accelerate the global 3D printing industry.

“Our package, product, and process are all designed to provide a greener alternative for the 3D printing industry,” said Sherman. “Once the industry realizes just how functional our product is, we anticipate a large shift in demand for filament made with recycled material. We hope to build awareness of the environmental footprint of 3D printing, and, in turn, spark further demand for eco-friendly materials.”