Conductive filaments are polymers loaded with electrically conductive materials (graphite, graphene, carbon nanotubes, metallic particles) that transmit electric current. Unlike ESD (dissipative) filaments, conductive filaments have significantly lower resistance and allow for the printing of circuits, sensors, antennas, EMI shielding, and parts requiring electrical continuity.
When to use a conductive filament
- Electronic prototyping: rapid circuits, conductive traces, contacts.
- Capacitive and tactile sensors: touch buttons, human-machine interfaces.
- EMI/RFI shielding: enclosures that attenuate electromagnetic interference.
- Printed antennas: NFC, RFID, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth in custom objects.
- Pressure sensors: pressure-sensitive resistance, DIY instrumentation.
- Education: electronics and physics demonstrations in educational labs.
Technical features
- Volume resistivity: 1-1000 Ω·cm depending on the conductive filler.
- Base materials: Conductive PLA (Proto-pasta, Black Magic), PETG with graphene, flexible conductive TPU.
- Nozzle temperature: 200-230 °C (conductive PLA), 240-260 °C (PETG-graphene).
- Recommended nozzle: 0.6-0.8 mm hardened steel (conductive fillers are abrasive).
- Limitations: do not replace copper, but are ideal for low-current traces.
Brands on Strato3D
We are selecting the best conductive references on the market (Proto-pasta Conductive PLA, BlackMagic3D Graphene PLA, eSUN). The collection will expand in the coming months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I print functional circuits? Yes, for very low currents (LEDs, sensors, touch). Not for power circuits.
Do they replace copper? No, the resistance is 10⁴-10⁶ times higher than copper. They are suitable for low-current applications.
Are they suitable for RF frequencies? Some grades are (NFC, RFID antennas). Check the datasheet for impedance and losses.
Can I solder them? No, traditional soldering does not work. Use screw terminals or mechanical contacts.