Industrial 3D Printer for Composite Materials Now Available
Earlier this year a company has introduced a new 3D printing technology that could revolutionize the manufacturing industry. The company called Envisiontech showed us that it is not only possible to print composite material, but it is already here. Their 3D printing technology gives the manufacturer multiple fiber and matrix options, to create composite materials according to specification. The company said that their reason for concentrating in composite material is due to the fact that aerospace companies all over the world spend a huge percentage of their budget on composite materials alone. That and the fact the metal 3D printing industry is incredibly saturated right now.
Unfortunately, as of the moment they only have a model for big manufacturing companies, which is definitely not in our price range. But the good news is that they have proven it to not only be possible, but also practical. While most of us in the composite material game are not as knowledgeable with tech to be able to make our own Composite material 3D printer, we can pretty much expect a flood of tech geniuses making cheaper models soon. Or we could also wait for Envisiontech to make a more affordable one once the rich guys are done playing with the first models.
Either way the news of 3D Printing Composite materials excites me. Just like every tech that came before, we are now just looking at the beginning of everything, who knows, maybe through this technology creating composite materials from carbon nanotubes would be more effective than the ones currently being used in the lab. But while we wait for new tech to come and allow us to experiment on new composite material ideas, we get back to work on developing innovations the old fashion way.
Understanding Composites and What Makes a Material Composite
So what are composites exactly? Are they something extremely complex? I know most of the people reading thing right now is very well versed on what composites are, but for the sake of helping out everyone, our team have decided to start with the very basic of basics when it comes to composite materials. The importance of knowing the basics and having a good foundation of a subject is the key to understanding the deeper aspects of the subject and formulate new ideas, so for now let us have a quick refresher course about composite materials.
In order to truly understand composites we must go back to the original composite material. The first composite material was made out of two things found in nature, mud and straw, the mud bounded together could form a brick, mixing straw in it allows the fiber to strengthen the material, this was the birth of manmade composite materials. Basically composite materials are made of two or more monolithic materials which when mixed together properly, creates a strong material.
The use of composite materials are for instances when a single building material is not durable or sturdy enough for a specific application. For example, when building a bridge you cannot merely use cement, as it is not strong enough, but when mixed with gravel and some steel grids you have a strong and durable material that can be used to build a sturdy bridge.
Depending on what you need, you look for materials with certain features and combine them together, although not as simple and straightforward in practice. A good example would be fiberglass; fiberglass is used for its light weight feature and sturdiness, it is simply two materials, resin and fiber. The easily moldable material is formed to the shape it is needed before it is hardened and or laminated; it is then cut according to specifications for use, which results into a durable material.
The two main components of composite materials the matrix and the reinforcement, though composite materials can be made with several materials, they are categorized by these the two components. In the bridge example, the cement is the matrix, while the gravel and steel are the reinforcement. Basically the matrix forms the shape and incases the reinforcement, and the reinforcement strengthens the material with its fiber (or similar feature).
We use composite materials for everyday objects, like for construction of things like bridges, houses, and roads, but it goes beyond that, as we also use them for aircrafts, ballistic shielding, and even art. The importance of composite material is becoming more and more relevant, as even space agencies are considering specific composite materials for the use of experimental colonies on other planets.
Our goal is to teach about the basics of composite materials, the proper methods in creating composite materials, and maintain standards in the creation of composite materials. We believe that the future of civilization and the expansion of humanity lies with the advancement of composite materials.
Graphene: The Future of Composites
It was been a decade since the discovery of Graphene, and since then we have been able to recognize the uses of this wonder material. Sure, we already know the strength of the material, it being the strongest material known to man, but since its discovery we have discovered many amazing things that it could be used for. Such as creation of better batteries, computer chips, data storage (they found a way to magnetize it at an atomic size) and even for display.
Now we that we know more about the material and its uses, we understand that the need to develop practical ways to produce this material is necessary, one day it could become the material we use to make everything, since it is durable, conductive, clear, flexible , and other things we are yet to discover. It is clear that Graphene is definitely the future of composite materials, as it will be the go to material for durability and technological uses.
Unfortunately, the production of the material is extremely expensive. It is cheaper to make the least financially practical composite material right now then to make a small sample of graphene today. So for now we have to either wait, or experiment of the production ourselves, but then again if Ivy League geniuses are having trouble with it, how the hell are we supposed to solve it, then again a lot of discoveries were made by regular Joes.
Don’t be too disappointed though, as there are many researchers announcing that they are in the verge of getting there, and that we might be able to see the results of their research within our lifetime. So while you are working on everyday projects, make some plans for what you might be able to do with graphene once it is available to us.
New Composite Material Pest Proof
This is a small project we are experimenting with; we are currently developing a material that could be sprayed as a clear layer of covering to any wood as a thick varnish. Making the wood waterproof and significantly stronger, but what we are trying to achieve is pest proof material. Through the participation of a few friends from different fields, including what we deem as the best Pest Control Company Waukesha, we have formulated a composite material that repels several types of pests; including termites and rats.
If successful the application of the material could allow for cheaper and longer lasting pest control solutions, as well as the preservation of buildings and objects of historical importance. The experimental material is removable via a solution that loosens the bonds of the composite material.
This small report is not meant to be taken as the introduction of a new product we will be releasing, as of the moment, the material is expensive to make and the removing solution imperfect, requiring the material to be submerged for a varying amount of time.
Hopefully, our development of the material will reach a level where we could feasibly bring it to market, along with a solution that does not require prolonged submersion.
Building With Pest-Resistant Materials
Every building project, whether a house or a building requires a plan. The plan does not only specify the design of the project. It includes the materials to be used, too. It will be wise to use affordable, high-quality materials when building to ensure that your construction project will stand the test of time.
We always consult with pest control professionals at the onset of our construction projects as it provides us with excellent advice on pest-proofing our constructions. Remember that good pest management starts with prevention, not when pests have already caused extensive damage to your property.
Another way to prevent pest is to use composite materials. These materials are durable and have the ability to help to avoid pests as well. Here are some common composite materials that you can use in your construction project.
Composite Wood 
This type of timber is fabricated to discourage termites and to make the wood more durable. Another advantage of this material is it does not bend the same way as natural lumber. Composite wood may contain plastics that cannot be digested by termites, thus, repelling the bugs.
Composite Plastic
This type of plastic is reinforced by fibers, such as glass, carbon, or basalt. Composite plastic is usually used for decking and fencing. The advantage of using this material are fade and stain resistant, mold and mildew resistant, termite resistant, no nasty splinters, and very easy to clean.
Here are other materials that are natural pest-resistant:
Brick, Stones, and Concrete 
These materials are not conducive to pests as long as it is kept clean and dry. They are also very decorative and stylish when used. Fiber-cement siding may also be used to stop termites and other bugs.
Natural Pest-Resistant Wood
Yes, some woods are not attractive to pests. The possess oil that repels pests. The heartwood or the central part of the tree contains more of this oil and are denser and darker in color.
Hardwood like Ipe is avoided by insects because it is extremely hard and dense, it can even dull saws. Termites are also less likely to feed on particular trees like yellow cedar, cypress, Laotian teak, and redwoods.
Pressure-Treated Woods
This type of wood is infused with preservatives, such as during its manufacturing process. This process makes the wood hardier and resistant to rotting. The chemicals used also serve as a protective barrier against fungi and termites. Pressure-treated wood is best for foundation and outdoor use.
Please note, though, that using treated woods is not at guarantee that termites will not infest your home. It can only significantly reduce the infestation. Using treated or pest-resistant wood is not a replacement for professional pest control treatment and maintenance.
You should still contract a reliable pest control company thwart pest infestation. A regular pest inspection and efficient management program will prevent significant damage to your property.
Pest Control for Composite Plants
Growing one’s own composite plants is one thing, but maintaining them is another thing. Garden owners with their own natural green thumbs are lucky enough, but it would take a lot more from them to actually let their succulents live for a long time, particularly if the garden is susceptible to various kinds of harmful pests. To help the aspiring and active garden owners, here is a list of things to do when maintaining composite plants:
- Identify the insects in the garden.
It would be wise to learn about the insects that live in your gardening area. Some of them actually help your plants to grow, while others can harm them. A vast knowledge on insects and other organisms would be a great way to save you from worry and spending too much time. For example, ladybugs, praying mantis, hoverflies, and chalcids eat the insects eating and destroying your plants. On the other hand, mites, aphids, slugs, and mealy bugs are the bad ones.
- Come up with pest preventive measures.
Starting early on preventive measures should be a must for garden owners. Prevention is always easier than ending major infestations, and there are various ways on how to do this. Garden owners can start with regularly disinfecting tools, weeding and clearing the area, taking out the weaker plants, and lessening the number of insect territories.
- Research on home-madesolutions.
A practical garden owner would always invest on inexpensive and natural remedies for pest infestation. Some of the ingredients for these home-made solutions can be found in one’s own kitchen and local supermarket, so it would not be difficult to mix them up in one’s own home. For example, a mixture of water, canola oil and ivory soap can be used to fend off and kill mealy bugs and mites, while a mixture of water, hot pepper sauce, and ivory soap are for mites and other insects. The garden owner’s knowledge of insects will be important for looking up the remedies.
- Set up some traps in the area.
If it comes to active infestations, there would always be available traps and barriers in one’s local supermarket and gardening shop. The most basic trap would be the yellow flypaper that can also be used for trapping whiteflies and aphids. Other garden owners use barrier papers which are basically pieces of cardboard that are waxed on one side. These two are effective in making insects immobile. Another alternative would be buying pheromones that basically attracts insects to come to the area the pheromone is at. This would need careful planning because it can attract other insects outside of the garden and can make the pest infestation worse.
- Find pest control experts for advice and extermination services.
Aside from reading books, magazines, and articles about garden maintenance, it will always be best to find people who are already professional in the field. They already know the ins and outs of gardening so they would always have sound advice for your gardening woes. In a case of major pest infestation, calling on professional exterminators like the members of the Denver pest control company is recommended.
Composite Material Manufacturers In Atlanta
Last month I had the chance to go around Atlanta and see the work composite material manufacturers there do. Of course I was not there solely for that purpose, in fact I was there to accompany my wife while she inquire getting work done on her, as in Atlanta breast augmentation surgery can be quite affordable. Fortunately enough she allowed me to go off on my own while she do her business. Having a wife in the same field as you allows you to communicate about work without worrying if she would not understand. She told me that since we were in town, I should at least look at the manufacturers and see their shops, that way I wouldn’t be just wasting my time.
There were several companies that were fabricators, they had a lot of well-made materials and interesting products. I was by no means, spying on the competition, I merely wanted to know how well they were doing and that if they had anything interesting I might be able to experiment with when I get back home. While walking around though, someone who was familiar with my face saw me and greeted me, we had met during a convention some time ago, we talked for a bit and after which he offered to tour me around town, which I took.
We ended up talking about work and drinking the rest of the day away in the pub, he told me about a few new things they were working on and I told him what my group was working on. Nothing too much into detail though, just a professional conversation about the industry and possible innovations. Both of us were very passionate about work, which allowed us to be friends in the first place.
After a while my wife called me on my cell and she joined us, we decided to extend our stay in Atlanta so that he could show us around the town and his work. The whole week was an interesting one, with learning more about his new project and meeting his family.
My wife decided to schedule her procedure next month, and our friend in Atlanta offered us the guestroom to stay in, saying that he has a lot of exciting things to show me. I can’t wait to see what he is up to now, maybe he even completed his project.