In high demand: filaments for 3D printing (Photo: taulman3D)
The polyolefin group Braskem (São Paulo / Brazil) has bought the manufacturer of polyester filaments taulman3D (Linton, Indiana / USA) and thus expanded the business with materials for additive manufacturing. The range of the Brazilians in the field of 3D printing has so far included PE and PP filaments, some with carbon and glass fiber reinforcement as well as plastic granules and powder. The acquisition adds polyester filaments, some of which are based on recyclates, with which taulman3D primarily supplies sectors such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, industry and defense.
The market for 3D printing offers enormous potential, explained Jason Vagnozzi, commercial director of Braskem’s “Additive Manufacturing” division. He referred to forecasts according to which the market for 3D printing will grow by 20 percent annually and will reach a volume of USD 78 billion (equivalent to EUR 74 billion) in 2030. With the acquisition, Braskem is now doubling its share of this fast-growing market, Vagnozzi said.