A new development in manufacturing using wool as a renewable colour source for 3D printing has been launched in New Zealand, with two companies introducing what they describe as a world-first wool-coloured filament product.
According to a Wool Source media release, Christchurch-based ingredients manufacturer Wool Source and Tokoroa-based 3D printing filament manufacturer KiwiFil have developed “WoolyFil”, a commercial 3D printing filament that uses a wool-based colourant designed to replace synthetic or fossil-fuel derived pigments.
Wool Source chief executive Tom Hooper said the technology converts wool fibre into fine coloured particles for use across different manufacturing applications.
“Wool Source’s patented technology takes strong wool fibre and transforms it into fine, coloured particles that can be mixed into other materials for applications like 3D printing, bioplastics and screen-printing inks,” Hooper said.
He said the company’s pigment system was designed for manufacturers seeking more sustainable inputs while maintaining consistent performance.
“Unlike other biobased options for textural effect or colour, our four-colour base system gives filament producers maximum colour mixing flexibility,” Hooper said.
KiwiFil director Eva Hakansson said the company focused on ensuring the material worked for everyday users in the 3D printing manufacturing space.
“We loved the idea of using New Zealand wool and a biobased pigment in our recycled PLA filament but it needed to work for everyday 3D printing customers, as that’s our market,” Hakansson said.
“Our customers are loving the totally unique look and feel and the colours inspired by nature.”
The filament is available in two colours, Green Marble and Riverstone, with additional colours under development, according to the companies.
The Wool Source Pigments used in the product are described as having a 92–98% biobased carbon content, meaning most of the carbon is derived from renewable sources.
Wool Source said the launch follows other recent commercial applications of its wool-based materials, including a collaboration with outdoor brand Kathmandu on screen-printed apparel.
Wool Source is the commercialisation arm of the Wool Research Organisation of New Zealand (WRONZ), which supports wool research and development through funding from industry and government partners.
WRONZ Board Chair Andrew Morrison said the development reflected growing commercial interest in wool-based manufacturing inputs.
“It’s great to see the real commercial appeal of these innovations and exciting to see Wool Source enter the fast-growing 3D printing market,” Morrison said.
“We remain focussed on seeking scalable opportunities that will deliver strong returns for wool growers for the long-term.”
The organisations involved said the broader programme behind the product was supported over several years by wool growers, supply chain partners, and New Zealand government funding agencies.
