C-Lite ESD resin from Mechnano passes the NASA Outgassing Test

Developed in cooperation with Tethon3D, Mechnanos “C-Lite” resin, an award-winning material for vat photopolymerization, has successfully passed NASA ASTM E595-77/84/90 outgassing tests. C-Lite is a heat-resistant ESD (electrostatic discharge) material for SLA, DLP and LCP additive manufacturing (AM) systems. It can withstand temperatures of up to 225 degrees Celsius, which opens up a wide range of applications in areas that require high temperature resistance.

The successful completion of the outgassing tests represents a promising advance for additive manufacturing, particularly in the fields of optics and electronics, which operate in high-temperature, low-pressure environments.

“Non-metallic materials like polymers, adhesives, and rubbers release gasses, vapors, or volatile compounds when exposed to a heat and/or vacuum environments,” says Olga “Dr. O” Ivanova, Mechnano’s Director of Applications and Technology. “This phenomenon, known as outgassing, poses challenges as it leads to contamination, pressure fluctuations, and film buildup. Ultimately, this compromises the performance of components or renders them inoperable.”

C-Lite meets the criteria of the NASA ASTM E595-77/84/90 test and therefore qualifies as a non-off-gassing material. Test results included: TML – 0.7%; CVCM: 0.02%; and water vapor recovery: 0.13%.

“C-Lite stands out for its impressive thermal and static-dissipative properties, alongside being a non-outgassing material. These attributes render it a highly desirable choice for various electronics applications, spanning from satellites and space-based equipment to medical devices and systems,” added Dr. Ivanova.

“The unique properties and potential of manufacturing with carbon nanotube (CNT) photopolymer materials truly excites us. Our collaboration with Mechnano has allowed us to address the industry demand in developing this high-performance material. We foresee broad industry applications that will expand and elevate global additive manufacturing.”- says Trent Allen, CEO of Tethon 3D.

This breakthrough underlines the increasing potential of 3D printing materials in demanding environments and opens up new possibilities for application in aerospace and electronics.