How to re-disperse 3Dresyn PEDOTEK1 before printing
Technical Note
3Dresyn PEDOTEK1 and PEDOTEK1 Bio (both referred to throughout this document as "PEDOTEK1") are electrically conductive 3D-printing resins based on PEDOT:PSS.
Like all conductive dispersions, they should be re-homogenized before use. This guide shows why the material settles during storage, and how to bring it back to a uniform, printable state.
3Dresyn PEDOTEK1 contains conductive PEDOT:PSS particles dispersed within a photopolymer matrix — it is a dispersion, not a solution. Sedimentation, phase separation, agglomeration and viscosity changes during storage or transport are normal characteristics of conductive dispersions, and are typically reversible after proper re-homogenization.
What settling looks like — and how it recovers
The conductive phase in PEDOTEK1 can settle and agglomerate over time, especially after transport or temperature changes. This is expected, and it does not mean the material is spent. With proper mixing, the material returns to a uniform, printable dispersion.
The presence of visible agglomerates, sedimented conductive phase or heterogeneous appearance does not, by itself, indicate that the material is defective.
Sedimented
Visible agglomeration and a separated layer — the normal starting point.
Mixing
Mechanical or acoustic energy breaks up agglomerates and redistributes the conductive phase.
Re-dispersed
A uniform, flowable conductive dispersion again.
Why conductive dispersions settle
PEDOTEK1 carries a solid conductive PEDOT:PSS phase suspended in a liquid photopolymer matrix. Because the conductive particles are denser than the matrix, they gradually settle and can cluster into agglomerates. Conductivity in the finished print depends on rebuilding a continuous conductive network throughout the resin — which begins with full re-dispersion before printing.
Two reliable methods
Use mechanical or acoustic energy to break up agglomerates and redistribute the conductive PEDOT:PSS phase back into the matrix. Both methods below reach the same result — choose the one that fits your equipment, and always mix until the resin is visually uniform. Proper re-dispersion is necessary to rebuild a homogeneous conductive network throughout the resin prior to printing.
High-shear homogenization
- EquipmentRotor-stator high-speed homogenizer (FSH-2A, IKA Ultra-Turrax T25, Silverson L5M-A or equivalent)
- Time~1–2 minutes, until visually uniform
- WhyHigh local shear is the most effective way to break PEDOT:PSS agglomerates
Ultrasonic bath
- EquipmentHeated ultrasonic bath
- Conditions~10 minutes at ~30 °C
- WhyAcoustic cavitation redistributes the conductive phase without direct mechanical contact
Do not filter the resin
Do not filter PEDOTEK1 or PEDOTEK1 Bio through paint filters, paper filters or mesh screens. The conductive PEDOT:PSS particles are part of the formulation, and filtering removes them — permanently reducing the electrical performance of the resin and the printed part. Re-disperse instead of filtering.
What to expect
After re-dispersion the resin returns to a uniform, flowable, dark dispersion. A small amount of very fine particulate may remain — this is normal for a PEDOT:PSS conductive dispersion. A quick way to confirm uniformity is to draw a thin film down on a glass slide, as shown above.
Do & don’t
Do
- Re-homogenize fully before every print job and after extended storage.
- Start with a small quantity to dial in time and intensity, then scale up on your equipment.
- Keep the container well sealed and refrigerated between uses.
- Mix until visually homogeneous, with no remaining clusters.
Don’t
- Don’t filter the resin — filtering removes conductive PEDOT:PSS particles and lowers conductivity.
- Don’t over-process. Excess time, temperature or shear can raise viscosity and cause gel-like behaviour, destabilization and, under certain conditions, premature curing and/or polymerization.
- Don’t rely on aggressive UV over-curing or harsh drying; these can embrittle the part and disrupt the conductive network.
Storage, shelf life & measuring conductivity
Storage
Store sealed and cool (refrigerated). Within the declared shelf life, settling is reversible by re-homogenization.
Conductivity
PEDOTEK1 contains a high water fraction; conductivity is process-dependent, not intrinsic. Use a four-point probe — two-point handheld meters are strongly affected by contact resistance.
Curing
Calibrate exposure with a cure-depth (CRT) method for your printer rather than fixed seconds, and avoid prolonged UV over-exposure.
Frequently asked questions
My resin contains visible particles. Is it defective?+
Will conductivity be affected?+
Can I filter the resin?+
How often should I mix the resin?+
From re-dispersed resin to functional conductive part
Once re-homogenized, the conductive PEDOT:PSS phase is uniformly redistributed: the resin draws down into a continuous, even conductive film and is ready to 3D-print into functional parts.
When to contact us
Sedimentation and agglomeration are normal and reversible, as described above. Please contact 3Dresyns technical service, quoting your order and lot details, if any of the following occurs:
- The material cannot be re-dispersed after appropriate homogenization.
- Complete solidification of the resin is observed.
- Abnormal curing or gelation occurs during storage.