Joint Media release

Pretoria, South Africa – Filament factory, in collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has developed a groundbreaking nano-reinforced polymer composite that sets a new benchmark in advanced materials.

This innovative material delivers superior electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, enhanced radio frequency (RF, c & x regions) absorption, and exceptional electrical conductivity, making it ideally suited for use in stealth technologies, medical implants, and high-performance sensors.

“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,” said Professor Suprakas Sinha Ray, Chief Researcher and Centre Manager: DSTI-CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre.

The nano-reinforced polymer composite is engineered to deliver unparalleled performance, a perfect blend of strength and functionality. Its nano-reinforced polymer composite’s unique structure and composition enable it to efficiently shield electromagnetic interference, making it a prime candidate for stealth technologies and radar-absorbent materials. The integration of nano technology significantly improves the material’s electrical conductivity, opening possibilities for conductive medical implants, sensors, and other electronic devices.

“Nano-reinforced polymer composites shield electromagnetic interference and enhance electrical conductivity, making them ideal for stealth technologies, radar-absorbent materials, conductive medical implants, sensors, and electronic devices,” said Professor Sinha Ray

Moreover, it is available in both granule and filament form, the composite offers flexibility for various manufacturing processes, including injection molding, 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 ability to conduct electricity can be leveraged to create advanced sensors for applications like environmental monitoring and industrial automation.

Potential applications:

• 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 purpose.
• 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 Asia-Pacific. Significant advancement in unmanned aerial applications, electronic vehicles, health care sector underpin the potential for 3D printing technology to expand. We intend expand the portfolio of applications beyond the imagination and it is possible through national and international collaborations.  
 

Captions:

Photo 1 - CSIR-developed advanced nano-reinforced polymer composite pellets

Photo 2 - Advanced nano-reinforced polymer composite for 3-D printing produced by Filament Factory

-Ends-

Issued by CSIR Strategic Communication

Media enquiries:

Phetolo Phatsibi: Media practitioner
Email: PPhatsibi@csir.co.za
Mobile: +27(0)81 396 8871

Or

Stephan Kotzé Founder
Email: stephan@filamentfactory.co.za
Mobile:  +27(0)714908664

About the CSIR:

The CSIR, an entity of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, is one of Africa’s leading organisations in scientific and technology research, development and implementation. Constituted by an Act of Parliament in 1945 as a science council, the CSIR undertakes directed and multidisciplinary research and technological innovation, as well as industrial and scientific development, to improve the quality of life of all South Africans.

This year, the CSIR celebrates 80 years of touching lives through innovation. For more information, visit www.csir.co.za

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About Filament Factory

Established in 2013, Filament Factory is a long-standing producer of Additive manufacturing consumables. The company is dedicated to creating innovative and unique products for the 3D printing industry, manufactured to the highest quality.