Description

What is TimeMass Fiber? It’s a version of our filaments which is made of a composite Timeplast material , consisting of: Core or Microfibers as Structural Component : These are durable, flexible strands embedded within the filament. They act as the final "yarn" or fabric structure. Matrix or Outer Material as the Sacrificial Polymer : Surrounding the structural fibers, the sacrificial polymer serves as a temporary binding material, holding the microfibers in a specific shape during the 3D printing process. This dual-material design within a single filament eliminates the need for a separate support material, simplifying the printing process and making it possible to achieve very thin fibers When you print with this filament: Layer Formation : The filament is deposited in layers, with the sacrificial polymer temporarily binding the fibers to maintain the desired geometry and tension until post-processing. During printing, the sacrificial polymer: Supports intricate designs and fine fiber orientation, acting as scaffolding during the build process. Provides enough structural integrity to enable overhangs or complex shapes without collapsing. After printing, the object undergoes a sacrificial polymer removal process : The sacrificial polymer is engineered to dissolve or disintegrate when exposed to room-temperature water. As the sacrificial polymer dissolves, it leaves behind only the structural fibers, which are now loosely interwoven or patterned to create a fabric-like material. The final printed object has to be dried out (for example in a food dehydrator) up until it achieves the desired final texture. The remaining structure: Retains flexibility and softness because the fibers were embedded in a precise pattern, mimicking woven or knitted textiles. The final product achieves fabric-like properties because: Fiber Orientation : The structural fibers remain in a pattern that mimics traditional fabric weaving, providing flexibility and drapability. Tunable Thickness and Texture : By adjusting the sacrificial polymer-to-design ratio and the printing pattern, the properties of the resulting fabric can be tailored for softness, elasticity, or even stretchability. Porosity : The dissolution of the sacrificial polymer creates spaces between the fibers, allowing the fabric to feel light and breathable. Applications: Fashion : Soft, customizable 3D-printed fabrics for garments with intricate patterns and dynamic properties (e.g., shape memory or thermal adaptability). Medical : Biocompatible fabrics for bandages, surgical meshes, or wearable sensors. Soft Robotics : Lightweight, flexible materials for artificial skins or soft robotic components. Eco-Friendly Textiles : Fully recyclable or biodegradable fabrics due to the innovative polymer chemistry of Timeplast.