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CSIR and Filament Factory launch nano-reinforced polymer composite
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.
Left: CSIR-developed advanced nano-reinforced polymer composite pellets. Right: The advanced nano-reinforced polymer composite developed and produced for 3-D printing by Filament Factory.
A n innovative nano-reinforced polymer composite mate- rial – developed by Filament Factory, in collaboration with the CSIR – delivers superior electro- magnetic interference (EMI) shielding, enhanced radio frequency absorption in the RF, C- and X-frequency bands, and exceptional electrical conductivity, making it ideally suited for use in stealth technologies, medical implants and high- performance sensors. “This collaboration marks a sig- nificant 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 aero- space, electronics and healthcare,” says Professor Suprakas Sinha Ray, Chief Researcher and Centre Manager: DSTI-CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre. The polymer composite is engi- neered to deliver unparalleled perfor- mance, combining exceptional strength with optimal functionality. Its unique structure and composition enable it to efficiently shield electromagnetic interference, making it a prime can- didate for use as a radar-absorbent material. In addition, the integration of nanotechnology significantly enhances the material’s electrical conductivity, paving the way for conductive medical implants, sensors, and other electronic devices. Moreover, it is available in both
granule and filament forms. The com- posite offers flexibility for various manufacturing processes, including injection moulding, extrusion and ad- ditive 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 im- plants, such as neural interfaces and cardiac pacemakers. Furthermore, the material’s sensitivity to elec- tromagnetic fields and its electrical conductivity can be leveraged to cre- ate advanced sensors for applications such as environmental monitoring and industrial automation. Potential applications include: • Stealth Technology: The compos- ite’s exceptional RF absorption properties make it an ideal mate- rial for reducing the radar signa- ture of aircraft, drones, and other vehicles for civilian purposes. • Radar Absorbent Materials: The material can be used to create
radar-absorbent coatings and structures for a variety of ap- plications, 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 monitor- ing 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 poly- mer composite represents a significant step forward in the development of advanced materials with transforma- tive potential. Globally, the 3D printing market is concentrated in North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. Significant advancements in unpiloted aerial ap- plications, electric vehicles, and the healthcare sector underpin the potential for 3D printing technology to expand. “We intend to expand the portfolio of applications beyond imagination, and this is possible through national and international collaborations,” concludes Sinha Ray. www.csir.co.za
44 ¦ MechChem Africa • November-December 2025
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