With NEOZANT, the US company Element Labs has introduced a new high-performance polymer that has been specifically developed for use in demanding industrial applications. According to the manufacturer, the material combines mechanical robustness, thermal stability and chemical resistance in a form that is easy to process – including for additive manufacturing processes. Element Labs is a subsidiary of the NZT Group and focuses on application-specific material solutions in areas such as aerospace, infrastructure and medical technology.
Technologically, NEOZANT is based on a polymer formulation that combines the properties of classic thermoplastics, thermoset systems and fluoropolymers. The material can be processed using injection molding, casting and various 3D printing processes such as filament extrusion or VARTM (Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding). This opens up new possibilities for manufacturing functional components with additive freedom of geometry and high long-term stability at the same time.
“Sustainability and innovation are at the core of NEOZANT,” said Stuart A.M. Toner, COO at NZT Group, Inc., and President at Element Labs. “Our material not only pushes the boundaries of performance but also meets the demand for environmentally responsible solutions, offering lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and highly durable options for industries worldwide.”
One example of practical application is the cooperation with Exothermic Molding and JBT, a provider of autonomous transport systems. Using the RIM process (Reaction Injection Molding), housing components were manufactured from flame-retardant NEOZANT, into which metal parts were integrated in a form-fit. For military applications, defective GRP components were replaced with NEOZANT components that combine 3D-printed inserts, elastomer treads and colored matrix materials to form a ready-to-install unit. The components passed drop load and corrosion resistance tests and require no subsequent coating.
Paul K. Steck, President of Exothermic Molding, Inc., added, “NEOZANT has transformed our ability to deliver high-performance solutions. Its durability and process versatility allow us to replace legacy materials with components that withstand extreme conditions while streamlining production through our value-added sub-assembly services.”
In additive manufacturing, NEOZANT offers potential for functional components where mechanical strength and chemical resistance are paramount.
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