Hexcel has launched an electrically-conductive high-performance thermoplastic for 3D printing using selective laser sintering (SLS). Applications in  EMC shielding, static dissipation and radar absorption are foreseen.

eos-p800-for-HexPEKK-EM

Called HexPEKK EM, it is a polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) and carbon fibre composite for flight-ready parts in commercial aerospace, defence and military sectors.

Surface resistivity is ~8×104Ω/sq and volume resistivity ~4×103Ωcm.

Physically, parts printed from the composite can be used between -184 and +149°C  it melts at 300°C

“The management of static electricity dissipation, electromagnetic interference, and radiation absorption is extremely important in the design of all air vehicles. The introduction of this advanced additive manufacturing material will enable the fabrication of extremely complex aerostructures with unparalleled structural and electrical functionality. It significantly reduces weight and cost while providing unlimited design flexibility,” according to Hexce v-p Lawrence Varholak.