Continuing its sustainability efforts, IC3D is proud to announce its collaboration with Ohio University, supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Energy. The project focuses on using additive manufacturing as a method to capture environmental carbon by adding coal to 3D printing filament.

Bridging Traditional Manufacturing and Sustainable Innovation

IC3D’s role in this project harnesses our decade-plus industry experience and technical expertise in both traditional manufacturing and 3D printing technologies. This work with Ohio University is set to redefine the utility of coal by embedding it into 3D printing filaments. This initiative not only aims at expanding the utility of coal as a more sustainable product but also highlights the potential of additive manufacturing in pushing the boundaries of ecological industrial practices.

Envisioning the Future of Manufacturing

At IC3D, we are performing 3D printing trials designed to optimize the printing parameters and ease of printing of these novel filaments. Our engagement extends to the techno-economic assessments of these materials, ensuring that their impact goes beyond the lab, providing scalable, efficient, and effective real-world applications.

Upcycling Coal into Valuable Products

The objective of utilizing coal-enhanced filaments is twofold:

  1. Environmental Impact: By incorporating coal into functional 3D printing materials, we can convert a non-renewable resource into a material that reduces CO2 emissions and paves the way for a more sustainable manufacturing landscape.
  2. Economic Viability: Engaging with techno-economic assessments, we evaluate the potential market applications and financial feasibility, driving innovation while ensuring economic benefits.

IC3D’s Ongoing Commitment to Innovation

This partnership with Ohio University and the support from the U.S. Department of Energy emphasizes our dedication to advancing 3D printing technologies. At IC3D, we continue to explore applications that not only elevate the capabilities of additive manufacturing but also contribute responsibly to environmental stewardship.

To discover more about our innovative projects and how we’re transforming the industry, visit our Government Activity page.

This material is based upon work supported by the Department of Energy under Award Number(s) DE-FE0032143.
This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an agency of the United States Government. Neither the United States Government nor any agency thereof, nor any of their employees, makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Government or any agency thereof. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States Government or any agency thereof.