An innovative nano-reinforced polymer composite material – developed by Filament Factory, in collaboration with the CSIR – delivers superior electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, enhanced radio frequency absorption in the RF, C- and X-frequency bands, and exceptional electrical conductivity, making it ideally suited for use in stealth technologies, medical implants and high-performance sensors.
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The advanced nano-reinforced polymer composite developed and produced for 3-D printing by Filament Factory.
“This collaboration marks a significant step forward in South Africa’s materials science capabilities. The nano-reinforced composite not only outperforms traditional materials but also opens doors for local innovation in critical industries such as aerospace, electronics and healthcare,” says Professor Suprakas Sinha Ray, Chief Researcher and Centre Manager: DSTI-CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre.
The polymer composite is engineered to deliver unparalleled performance, combining exceptional strength with optimal functionality. Its unique structure and composition enable it to efficiently shield electromagnetic interference, making it a prime candidate for use as a radar-absorbent material. In addition, the integration of nanotechnology significantly enhances the material’s electrical conductivity, paving the way for conductive medical implants, sensors, and other electronic devices.
Moreover, it is available in both granule and filament forms. The composite offers flexibility for various manufacturing processes, including injection moulding, extrusion and additive manufacturing (3D printing). The material’s lightweight nature and robust mechanical properties make it suitable for applications where weight reduction and durability are critical factors.
The composite’s exceptional radio frequency (RF) absorption properties make it ideal for reducing the radar signature of aircraft, drones and other vehicles for civilian purposes. It can also be used to create radar-absorbent coatings and structures for various applications, including military and civilian infrastructure.
Additionally, its biocompatibility and conductivity make it suitable for developing innovative medical implants, such as neural interfaces and cardiac pacemakers. Furthermore, the material’s sensitivity to electromagnetic fields and its electrical conductivity can be leveraged to create advanced sensors for applications such as environmental monitoring and industrial automation.
Potential applications include:
Stealth Technology: The composite’s exceptional RF absorption properties make it an ideal material for reducing the radar signature of aircraft, drones, and other vehicles for civilian purposes.
Radar Absorbent Materials: The material can be used to create radar-absorbent coatings and structures for a variety of applications, including military and civilian infrastructure.
Conductive Medical Implants: The composite’s biocompatibility and conductivity make it suitable for developing innovative medical implants, such as neural interfaces and cardiac pacemakers.
Sensors: The material’s sensitivity to electromagnetic fields and its ability to conduct electricity can be leveraged to create advanced sensors for various applications, including environmental monitoring and industrial automation.
CSIR is committed to pushing the boundaries of material science and providing innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of industries worldwide. The nano-reinforced polymer composite represents a significant step forward in the development of advanced materials with transformative potential.
Globally, the 3D printing market is concentrated in North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. Significant advancements in unpiloted aerial applications, electric vehicles, and the healthcare sector underpin the potential for 3D printing technology to expand.
“We intend to expand the portfolio of applications beyond imagination, and this is possible through national and international collaborations,” concludes Sinha Ray.