Photopolymer Resin
Photopolymer resin is a material family cured by light in SLA and related processes to create high-detail parts with smooth surfaces.
Overview
Photopolymer resins change from liquid to solid when exposed to a specified wavelength of light. In SLA printing they provide fine detail, sharp edges, and smooth surfaces. "Resin" does not describe one mechanical behavior: standard, tough, flexible, high-temperature, dental, and castable classes serve different purposes.
Properties
| Property | Typical Behavior |
|---|---|
| Density | Approximately 1.05–1.25 g/cm³ |
| Detail and surface | Very good |
| Rigidity | Medium to high, depending on formulation |
| Impact resistance | Low for standard grades; higher for tough grades |
| Heat resistance | Depends on grade and post-cure |
| UV/moisture resistance | Color and properties may change over long exposure |
These are general ranges. Use the selected manufacturer's current technical and safety data sheets for engineering calculations and suitability decisions.
Compatible Processes
Photopolymer resin works with vat-photopolymerization processes such as SLA, DLP, and MSLA/LCD. It is not a direct substitute for FDM filament or solid sheet and bar machined by CNC.
Recommended Uses
- Fine-detail visual prototype
- Miniature and display model
- Mold master and castable pattern
- Dental or biocompatible use with an appropriately certified grade
- Limited functional testing with a tough or high-temperature grade
Troubleshooting
If brittleness is a concern, evaluate a tough or durable grade instead of standard resin. Add drain holes to enclosed volumes and ask the Creator to check thick sections for curing stress. After production, wash the part and post-cure it for the time stated in its data sheet.