Rep Rap Project - Replication Materials

Replication Materials

RepRaps print objects from ABS, Polylactic acid, and similar thermopolymers.

Polylactic acid has the engineering advantages of high stiffness, minimal warping, and an attractive translucent colour. It is also biodegradable and plant-derived.

Unlike in most commercial machines, RepRap users are encouraged to experiment with printing new materials and methods, and to publish their results. Methods for printing novel materials (such as ceramics) have been developed this way.

The RepRap project has not yet identified a suitable support material to complement its printing process.

Printing electronics is a major goal of the RepRap project so that it can print its own circuit boards. Several methods have been proposed:

• Wood's metal or Field's metal: low-melting point metal alloys to incorporate electrical circuits into the part as it is being formed.
• Silver-filled polymers: commonly used for repairs to circuit boards and are being contemplated for use for electrically conductive traces.
• Direct extrusion of solder
• Conductive wires: can be laid into a part from a spool during the printing process