Branded content — Evonik. Presentation published in November 2024.
Polyamide 12 (PA12) is used in selective laser sintering (SLS), a layer-by-layer powder-bed process. Evonik dates the introduction of its first PA12 powders for this process family to 1996. In 2024, the company presented INFINAM PA 6013 P and INFINAM PA 6014 P, featuring carbon black encapsulated inside PA12 particles.
A precipitation-based production process
The process described by Evonik starts with pellets dissolved in a solvent, followed by controlled precipitation to form powder. For these black grades, the company incorporates carbon black in a core-shell structure instead of relying solely on dry blending. It presents the approach as a way to retain SLS processability while incorporating the pigment.
Particle shape and flow influence the even deposition of powder layers. Precipitation is the manufacturer’s chosen route here, rather than the only method suitable for every powder or machine.
PA12 properties and the contribution of carbon black
PA12 is a semicrystalline thermoplastic used in functional prototypes, complex geometries and small production runs. Evonik highlights the following characteristics, which depend on formulation and processing conditions:
- Mechanical resistance and impact strength;
- Resistance to various chemicals, including oils, greases and some solvents;
- Low water absorption;
- Surface finish and processability.
Here, water intake means moisture absorption by the material, rather than water consumed during manufacturing.
Light-coloured PA12 powders can be dyed after printing. A black powder can remove that step when its resulting colour meets the application’s requirements; smoothing or other finishing may still be appropriate.
For its carbon-black formulations, Evonik also reports:
- More uniform pigmentation through the part;
- Less visible scratching and wear;
- Improved ultraviolet resistance;
- Improved elongation in the vertical build direction.
The manufacturer highlights automotive and aerospace applications for these properties. Better elongation in the vertical direction does not establish identical properties in every direction. Medical-device or food-contact requirements need to be checked for the particular grade and finished part.
Product references and presentation context
PA 6013 P and PA 6014 P are PA12 grades; they do not represent all INFINAM polymers. The PA 6013 P product page describes intended applications and provides its technical data sheet.
Reduced-carbon-footprint claims need to be linked to a grade, a comparison baseline and the scope of its life-cycle assessment. The RFP designation used for certain references does not automatically establish the same result for the entire INFINAM range.
Historical context: Evonik announced these powders for Formnext in Frankfurt, November 19–22, 2024, Hall 12.1, Stand C39. The benefits above are those communicated by the manufacturer.
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