The first Photopolymer formulations reaching up to 100% of functional oligomer loads
Oligomers are the functional polymer component of photocurable formulations. 3D printing resin formulations are loaded with a maximum of a 20% of oligomer components; this number can’t increase due to viscosity limitations.
Supernova viscogels reach viscosities exceeding 1M cP, starting at an oligomer load of 80%
Viscogels defeating AM resins
- Importance of Oligomers
- Reduction in VOC's
- Particle Loading
Importance of Oligomers
Oligomers are long molecular weight polymer chains that are used to impart properties within UV curable systems. These long chain polymers exhibit the thermomechanical properties that people desire, though in resins need to be reduced in viscosity to achieve printable levels. With Supernova Viscogels™, we are able to load much higher oligomer content into our systems to enable true molded plastic like properties.
Reduction in VOC's
Monomers are reactive diluents used to lower the viscosity of mixtures to obtained a printable state, as well as reduce the cost of the manufactured resin. They also acts as a solvent within the mixture, and often not becoming fully cured in the end part. This leads to molecules free to migrate and becoming off gassed as VOC’s from end parts. Supernova Viscogels™ rely on high oligomer loading, improving the degree of cure and significantly reducing any VOC emission of end parts.
Particle Loading
Supernova Viscogels™ can incorporate a higher concentration of solid additives without the need to compromise for viscosity. Their thicker, past-like consistency allows for greater particle loading, enhancing the mechanical properties and resulting in a stronger, more durable final product. In contrast, low viscosity resins sacrifice particle loading and morphology for increased flowability, which diluted the resin and weakens the final product.
R&D Materials
