Polymer filaments are still the most popular 3D printing material. According to Market Research Future’s report, the market is expected to reach $8.1B by 2030. In a world that is increasingly concerned about the environmental impact and other crises, it can be challenging to print responsibly. Fillamentum, a company that makes FDM filaments, is your friend. The Czech Republic-based company, which has been producing filaments for several years, is currently distributing its products in over 62 nations. What is most interesting about this company, however, is its social responsibility in sustainability. NonOilen is the company’s line of 100% biodegradable filaments. Josef Dolecek (CEO and Founder) of Fillamentum was our host. He shared his insights on the company’s reaction to the current global crisis, its environmental actions, and more.
3DN: Would you like to introduce yourself and discuss your connection with 3D printing?
Josef Dolecek (my name is Josef Dolecek) is the founder and CEO of Fillamentum. My initial education was in chemical technology. My career focused on developing new polymer materials to be used in global beverage packaging. Finally, after 10+ years of working in the corporate sector, I quit and founded my own plastic manufacturing facility with the help my friends. We specialize in precise microtubing as well as advanced materials. This was only the first step in manufacturing precision filaments. It was a few years later that we got involved when 3D printing became popular.
Josef Dolocek CEO, Founder of Fillamentum
3DN: How did Fillamentum get started? What is Fillamentum’s purpose?
The company Fillamentum got its name from the new product itself, which looks like a “violin string” – in latin “filamentum.” Additionally, it is Fillamentum with the amendment‚ ‘Ad(d)ictive polymers.’ Our goal was to introduce precise and valuable 3D printing filaments causing – literally – an addiction. Our mission is simple: to produce high-quality additive manufacturing materials while being respectful of the environment. We believe responsible technology can save our planet for the future.
3DN: Fillamentum is addressing a variety of crises around the globe right now. This is why it is important for you.
Today’s crises are a result of the loss of critical thinking in modern society. Our society’s over-abundance has led to a less vigilant, lazier, and more demanding society than it was in the past. Fillamentum is committed to the principle of empowered company. Critical thinking is an important part of our organization. We believe that more power can make a difference in the world. This attitude has been a great help in turbulent times. Our principles and vision, and also passion – the best things are only made with passion. Our focus is on sustainability and protecting our planet.
FDM printing can be done with fillamentum materials in many colors.
3DN: Could your comments expand on the importance sustainability and taking action to protect the environment? What have you done?
We can safely say that sustainability is a core value of who we all are. How do we address these issues? Firstly, we say “Think before you print.” Every one of us can manage their own environmental impact and the easiest way is to judge if what we do is necessary or not. We are no exception. Our production halls and office buildings’ roofs have been covered with photovoltaic panels since 2011. We want our filament sellers to be aware that their actions can have an impact on the world.
Furthermore, we have decided to provide a green alternative to each product without compromising its characteristics. Notably, last year we introduced NonOilen – the first circular and compostable 3D printing material in the world. This polymer composition, which is unique and patent-pending, is not only recyclable (100% of it is biodegradable) but also offers an alternative to engineering polymers. Our NonOilen is a leading product.
Fillamentum is a company that values passion and innovation.
We are still going. Now we have moved to also recycling Nylon from fishing nets – Fishy filament by Fillamentum. We are on our way! We will do our best to minimize any negative effects on the environment.
3DN: Do you have any last words for our readers
I encourage readers to visit our website to see some of our case studies and projects, and learn more about who and what we do.
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*All photo credits: Fillamentum