Composition
Formlabs Elastic 50A Resin is a specialized photopolymer material designed for use in Formlabs’ SLA 3D printers. Engineered to simulate silicone rubber’s elasticity, this resin features a unique blend of photopolymer resins, photoinitiators, and elastomeric additives.
Physical Properties
- Density: Generally ranges between 1.1–1.2 g/cm³
- Tensile Strength: Usually falls within 20-35 MPa, contingent on post-curing processes
- Elongation at Break: Extremely high, often exceeding 150%, providing silicone-like elasticity
- Shore Hardness: Approximately 50A, making it even more flexible compared to other resins in Formlabs’ lineup
Aesthetic Quality
Formlabs Elastic 50A Resin produces prints with a smooth surface finish, often available in clear or lightly tinted colours. The material is designed to capture intricate details, making it ideal for applications that require aesthetic appeal along with high flexibility.
Durability and Usage
Engineered for applications that demand high elasticity and resilience, this resin is particularly well-suited for parts like seals, gaskets, medical models, and various components in soft robotics. Its exceptional elongation at break and low Shore hardness make it one of the most elastic materials in the Formlabs resin portfolio.
Post-Processing
Typical post-processing involves washing the printed object in a solvent such as isopropyl alcohol to remove uncured resin, followed by UV curing to optimize mechanical properties. The material can also be cut, sanded, and stretched, and it usually adheres well to specific types of flexible adhesives.
Environmental Impact
Like most photopolymer resins, Elastic 50A is not biodegradable and should be disposed of responsibly to minimize its environmental impact. The material is synthesized from non-renewable resources, making it less eco-friendly compared to bio-based materials like PLA.
In summary, Formlabs Elastic 50A Resin offers a highly specialized, flexible material designed for applications requiring silicone-like elasticity and resilience. While it may not be the most eco-friendly option, its exceptional mechanical properties make it invaluable for specialized tasks that require high elasticity. Responsible use and disposal are crucial due to its environmental considerations.
Formlabs Elastic 50A – Technical Data Sheet