Waste plastics and 3D printing "industry marriage": both benefit

The rapid development of 3D printing technology is inseparable from its own advantages. Based on the digital model, it uses powdered adhesive materials to construct objects by layer-by-layer printing, which can be either metal or plastic . This not only improves the precision of product manufacturing, but also reduces the negative impact of industrial production on the environment. However, consumables have become an important factor restricting the development of China's 3D technology. The development of materials is still characterized by insufficient quantity, poor versatility and low performance.

In this context, China Plastics Association has formulated a preliminary draft of the framework for the “13th Five-Year Plan” for plastics processing industry. The first draft plan requires that during the “Thirteenth Five-Year Plan” period, the plastics industry needs to focus on transformation and upgrading, and vigorously develop new materials and technologies. New equipment and new products, 3D printing plastic consumables are listed as one of the key development products.

The “13th Five-Year Plan” takes the development of 3D printing technology as an opportunity to focus on supporting the development of plastic consumables, which brings opportunities for the waste plastics industry. First of all, the international use of advanced technology to use plastic waste, especially thermoplastics, as a consumable for 3D printing has achieved high economic benefits, laying a solid foundation for the use of waste plastics to manufacture 3D printing consumables, and the demand for thermoplastics has increased. The comprehensive utilization of waste plastics will be greatly improved, the recycling system of waste plastics will be accelerated, and the business model of the entire industrial chain will be further improved. Second, the policy provides guidance and support for the development direction of waste plastic consumables.

Due to the low production cost, short production cycle, automation and environmental protection of 3D printing, 3D printing has become a key high-tech industry in China, and has been highly valued by national leaders. Li Keqiang and Other State Council leaders have given special lectures in the State Council. Discussed the issue of accelerating the development of advanced manufacturing and 3D printing. The “13th Five-Year Plan” of the plastics industry will also inject a “cardiotonic agent” into the waste plastics industry during this special period, and send the sails of this large ship to the waste plastics industry. There was a strong east wind. Protecting the environment while creating value makes us happy with this "marriage". Waste plastics and 3D printing are also needed in this "industry marriage". The sluggish waste plastics industry has won development opportunities for itself. 3D printing also saves "prepared food" for product manufacturing.