Editor's Pick: Static-dissipating composite material for electronics additive manufacturing

Markforged introduces Onyx ESD, a new composite material for additive manufacturing of electronics. The company, a builder of additive manufacturing equipment, says the new material is a high-performance static-dissipative version of its popular Onyx, a micro carbon fiber-filled nylon. 

Markforged says electronics manufacturers have not been able to innovate with additive manufacturing due to the lack of static-dissipation materials. Electronics manufacturers must use materials that meet electrostatic discharge (ESD) safety requirements, to avoid damaging a product or critical component during production. Though there are other ESD-safe materials in the market, Markforged’s is reportedly the only to offer the highest strength (when paired with continuous carbon fiber), tightest surface resistance range and a smooth surface finish.

When printing with Onyx ESD, Markforged says electronics manufacturers can safely produce strong, accurate tools and fixtures ready for the manufacturing floor. Image courtesy of Markforged.

Markforged says Onyx ESD was developed to achieve a tight surface resistance range, to consistently meet strict ESD-safe requirements. The material can be reinforced with continuous carbon fiber, creating strong and static-free composite parts. The result is the ability to improve business responsiveness by producing electrostatic discharge-safe parts on demand.

When printing with Onyx ESD, Markforged says electronics manufacturers can safely produce strong, accurate tools and fixtures ready for the manufacturing floor, as well as customer-ready parts. 

Markforged says the new material offers higher strength and stiffness than the original Onyx, and is compatible with the full range of Markforged continuous fiber reinforcement materials. 

The material is now available for use on Markforged X7, X5 and X3 printers. Onyx ESD may be accessed by existing Markforged customers using Eiger, the company’s cloud-based AM management software. 

For more information on Markforged Onyx ESD, click here. 

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.