Recycled fishing nets as a high-tech material for 3D printing

The British company Fishy Filaments has developed a process for converting used fishing nets into high-quality material for 3D printing. The company now wants to finance the next stage of development with a new crowdfunding campaign.

The focus is on the introduction of a carbon fiber-reinforced nylon 6 powder for selective laser sintering (SLS). This material should come entirely from recycled sources and achieve the performance of new products. At the same time, Fishy Filaments promises a 97-98% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to conventional materials.

The technology addresses a serious environmental problem: an estimated 200,000 tons of fishing nets end up in the sea or in landfills every year. The Fishy Filaments recycling process requires no chemicals and can be implemented in compact, container-sized systems.

Well-known companies such as Philips Lighting are already using the recycled materials. Interest is also growing in the automotive industry – BMW is currently testing possible applications. Ian Falconer, founder and CEO of Fishy Filaments, sees great potential in the automotive industry in particular: “High-performance components that can be co-recycled and enable new approaches to reducing Scope 3 emissions are considered very attractive.”

The company is planning to scale its business model internationally. To this end, the proven recycling systems are to be sold to NGOs, local governments and entrepreneurs worldwide. Fishy Filaments promises operators purchase guarantees at fixed prices. The aim is to create economic and environmental benefits for coastal communities.

Fishy Filaments aims to raise 150,000 pounds with the current financing round. The funds will be used to further develop and market the product range. At the same time, the company is expanding its production capacity at its headquarters in Cornwall with the support of regional funding.