11-26-2014: Protoplant announced two new Proto-Pasta filaments - stainless steel and magnetic iron
PLA-based materials for 3D printing
On November 26, 2014, the American company Protoplant, creator of the Proto-Pasta brand, announced the launch of two innovative 3D printing materials: Stainless Steel PLA and Magnetic Iron PLA. These were among the first materials of their kind on the market, offering desktop 3D printer users the ability to create parts with a metal-like appearance.
The first company to introduce metal into PLA filaments was colorFabb, which had launched bronzeFill, a bronze-infused filament, a few months earlier. Protoplant's materials were based on different metal alloys, offering unique finishing possibilities.
Stainless Steel PLA, a filament infused with stainless steel, enabled realistic metallic finishes. Users could apply various post-processing techniques such as polishing, wire brushing, or tumbling to achieve either a cast-metal look or a shiny luster.
Magnetic Iron PLA was equally unique. Containing iron, prints made with this filament could attract magnets, opening up new design possibilities. Additionally, the filament could undergo oxidation, giving prints a distinctive rusty patina. Both materials were twice as dense as standard PLA, adding weight and a solid feel to printed objects.
Protoplant, known for producing Proto-Pasta filaments, was founded in Vancouver, Washington, by brothers Aaron and Dustin Cram. The company began with a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2013, raising about $36,000 to launch specialty filaments like carbon fiber PLA and high-temperature PLA. Since then, Protoplant has expanded its offerings, introducing new materials such as recycled, conductive, and metal-infused filaments.
Source: www.3dprint.com