Braskem Acquires taulman3D: Bolstering Industrial 3D Printing Materials and Sustainable Innovation
In the rapidly evolving landscape of additive manufacturing (AM), the choice of materials stands as a critical determinant for achieving components with desired mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. The inherent versatility and precision of 3D printing are unlocked only when paired with advanced materials engineered for specific applications. Consequently, the 3D printing materials market has experienced exponential growth in recent years, drawing significant investment and innovation from major chemical companies globally. This strategic interest is exemplified by Braskem, Latin America’s largest petrochemical company, which recently announced a pivotal acquisition further solidifying its presence in the industrial 3D printing sector. Building upon an already robust portfolio, Braskem’s move to acquire taulman3D signals a clear intent to become a dominant force in high-performance additive manufacturing materials.
For those unfamiliar with its pedigree, taulman3D is a highly regarded American filament producer renowned for its specialization in creating high-strength filaments and advanced thermoplastics specifically tailored for additive manufacturing. The company has carved out a significant niche, particularly as a leading producer of carbon fiber composite filaments, which offer exceptional stiffness, strength-to-weight ratio, and durability. This focus on performance-driven materials has earned taulman3D considerable recognition. In a notable achievement in 2021, the company was awarded a NATO Stock Number (NSN), known domestically as a National Stock Number in the USA. This unique numeric identifier is utilized by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a crucial intergovernmental military alliance comprising 30 member states including economic and military powerhouses like the USA, UK, and France, to systematically identify “standardized material items of supply.” The granting of an NSN signifies that taulman3D’s 3D printing materials meet stringent quality and performance standards, making them suitable for procurement and use by U.S. and NATO forces. This certification not only underscores the reliability and quality of taulman3D’s products but also opens doors to critical defense and aerospace applications. Furthermore, taulman3D’s expertise led to its selection to manage a dedicated 3D printing laboratory at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane, a testament to its technical prowess and trusted position within defense-related additive manufacturing.
taulman3D is a leading producer of carbon fiber filaments, enhancing Braskem’s industrial 3D printing material offerings.
Braskem’s Strategic Vision: Expanding Industrial 3D Printing Materials and Sustainability
Braskem’s acquisition of taulman3D represents a clear and strategic affirmation of its unwavering commitment to and growing interest in the burgeoning 3D printing sector. This move is particularly significant as it will dramatically expand Braskem’s own portfolio of 3D printing materials, enhancing its competitive edge in a highly specialized market. Prior to this acquisition, Braskem had already established a strong foundation, offering a diverse range of solutions compatible with popular additive manufacturing technologies such as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and high-speed pellet extrusion. Their existing material lineup notably includes advanced polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) formulations, alongside an emphasis on sustainability through recycled and bio-based AM materials. Furthermore, Braskem has been at the forefront of developing specialized PP filaments reinforced with carbon fiber and glass fiber, catering to applications demanding enhanced mechanical properties and reduced weight.
The integration of taulman3D’s product lines will not only more than double Braskem’s current offerings but also enable the company to establish a significantly stronger foothold in the fiercely competitive industrial 3D printing material market. taulman3D brings an impressive array of advanced, high-performance materials, including specialized nylon composites. These encompass Carbon Fiber Alloy Nylon, offering exceptional stiffness and strength; Glass Fiber Alloy Nylon, providing improved impact resistance and dimensional stability; PA Cast Plate Nylon, known for its superior machinability and robust mechanical properties; and Medical and FDA grade Nylon, essential for regulated applications in healthcare and food contact, among others. This combined portfolio empowers Braskem to address an even broader spectrum of industrial applications, from prototyping and tooling to functional end-use parts in demanding sectors such as automotive, aerospace, defense, and medical devices. The synergy between Braskem’s bulk material expertise and taulman3D’s specialized filament production capabilities creates a formidable force in the AM material supply chain.
A Shared Commitment to Sustainability in Additive Manufacturing
Beyond expanding their material breadth, this strategic partnership between Braskem and taulman3D underscores a shared and deeply ingrained commitment to sustainability, a theme of increasing importance across all industrial sectors, including additive manufacturing. Braskem has been a vocal proponent and innovator in sustainable materials, having unveiled three new sustainable 3D printing materials just last year, highlighting its dedication to circular economy principles and reducing environmental impact. With the acquisition of taulman3D, Braskem will be able to further enhance its green portfolio by incorporating recycled PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol), a popular and versatile material for 3D printing, known for its strength and ease of use, now available in a more environmentally friendly form thanks to taulman3D’s expertise. This alignment on sustainability provides a powerful foundation for future innovations and resonates with a growing number of businesses and consumers seeking eco-conscious manufacturing solutions.
Jason Vagnozzi, Global Commercial Director of Additive Manufacturing at Braskem, articulated the strategic significance of this acquisition, stating, “Braskem’s acquisition of taulman3D brings a high-quality 3D filament producer with a globally diversified client list and a highly complementary product portfolio. With projections for the 3D printing industry expected to grow from $15 billion today to $78 billion by 2030 – growing at an estimated 20% CAGR – we see enhanced opportunities to serve this rapidly growing demand. Today’s acquisition doubles Braskem’s market share in the additive manufacturing market and further accelerates our growth strategy.” Vagnozzi’s statement eloquently captures the multifaceted benefits of this acquisition: not only does it integrate a producer of premium filaments with a robust customer base and a product range that perfectly complements Braskem’s existing offerings, but it also strategically positions Braskem to capitalize on the explosive growth anticipated in the 3D printing industry. The projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 20% underscores the immense potential and ongoing transformation within additive manufacturing, driven by advancements in technology, increasing adoption across industries, and continuous material innovation. By doubling its market share, Braskem is not merely acquiring assets but is investing in a future where industrial 3D printing plays a central role in global manufacturing, leveraging enhanced capabilities to meet diverse market demands and drive sustainable innovation. This bold move solidifies Braskem’s leadership ambition and its commitment to shaping the future of additive manufacturing materials.
taulman3D also offers recycled PETG, aligning with Braskem’s sustainability goals.
The Future of Industrial 3D Printing Materials
The acquisition of taulman3D by Braskem is more than just a corporate transaction; it reflects a broader industry trend towards the increasing industrialization and specialization of 3D printing materials. As additive manufacturing moves beyond prototyping and into large-scale production of functional parts, the demand for high-performance, reliable, and application-specific materials becomes paramount. This includes materials that can withstand extreme temperatures, exhibit superior mechanical strength, offer chemical resistance, or meet stringent regulatory requirements for medical and aerospace applications. The synergy created by combining Braskem’s vast petrochemical resources and material science expertise with taulman3D’s specialized filament development capabilities is poised to accelerate innovation in these critical areas. Manufacturers can expect a wider array of advanced polymers, composites, and sustainable options, empowering them to leverage 3D printing for even more demanding and complex industrial challenges. This strategic alignment will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing maturation of the additive manufacturing ecosystem, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with 3D printed components and reinforcing the critical role of material science in driving the industry forward.
What are your thoughts on Braskem’s significant acquisition of taulman3D? Do you perceive this as a definitive trend towards increasingly industrialized and specialized 3D printing materials being developed by major chemical companies? We invite you to share your insights and engage in the discussion by leaving a comment below, or by connecting with us on our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages! For the very latest news and developments in the fascinating world of 3D printing, don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, delivered straight to your inbox! Additionally, you can explore all our in-depth video content and interviews on our dedicated YouTube channel.
*All Photo Credits: taulman3D