Topic: Incorporating Natural Fibers
Hi everyone,
Firstly, pleasure to be part of this amazing forum. I sincerely believe 3D printing is going to change the world.
I'm buying my first extruder + filawinder next week and my goal is to make a fiber-based filament spool, usable in 3D printers. Currently toying with flax fibers and I have multiple samples of different particle sizes to try. This will be setup in my basement in a well ventilated and clean area. I have a friend who owns a 3D printer and I have the privilege of testing all of the samples we will make, gratis. He will be teaching me how to use the extruder, the winder and how to tweak it for best results. Going to play with abs and pla.
I'm looking at making two different blends...one that creates a flexible plastic and another that is as strong and durable as possible. We have a patent on the blends but I am always looking at improving them.
I am pretty new to this. I have a billion questions for whomever is willing to share knowledge and I know very well that most of this information is gained via trial and error. My first few questions are specific to making the blend:
1) What are some alternatives to plastic pellets?
a) Can I make my own flax plastic pellets?
b) Any advice on other additives I can use to enforce the binding?
c) Is it possible to run fiber straight through the extruder without it being in a pelletized form?
2) Where can I buy plastic pellets in Canada?
Thanks!