Braskem S.A. (Philadelphia, Pa.) announced its expanded partnership with Vartega Inc., a leading recycler of advanced materials including carbon fiber reinforced plastics, for a 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. 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. Each year 24,000 tons of carbon fiber waste is sent to landfill every year.
Braskem’s new carbon fiber reinforced polypropylene filament for 3D printing includes recycled content (Source: Braskem)
“We are so pleased to provide Braskem with sustainable high-performance carbon fiber for their new 3D printing filament,” said Andrew Maxey, Vartega CEO. “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.”
Jason Vagnozzi, Braskem Commercial Director of Additive Manufacturing, stated, “Our new Filament Recycling Program with Vartega is part of Braskem’s broader strategy to provide solutions for recycled products and eliminate plastic waste. 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.”
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.