Why Molecular Sieve Is the Best Desiccant for 3D Printing Filament Storage
Proper filament storage is critical for high-performance 3D printing. Many materials, including ULTEM™, PEEK, PEKK, and Nylon, are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the air. If filament is not kept dry, it can lead to brittle material, poor print quality, and extrusion issues.
The solution? Desiccants—materials that absorb moisture and keep filament dry. But not all desiccants are created equal. While silica gel, activated alumina, and clay are commonly used, none of them match the performance of molecular sieve.
In this post, we’ll explore why molecular sieve is the best desiccant for 3D printing filament and why it outperforms traditional options.
1. Why Moisture Is a Problem for 3D Printing Filament
Moisture contamination in filament can cause a range of issues, including:
Stringing and Blobs – Steam bubbles form in the extruder, causing excess oozing and surface defects.
Weakened Layer Adhesion – Water interferes with interlayer bonding, reducing part strength.
Increased Brittleness – Moisture absorption weakens the filament, causing breakage during printing.
Clogs and Inconsistent Extrusion – Water trapped in filament turns to steam, expanding and blocking the nozzle.
💡 Key takeaway: Moisture negatively impacts print quality, material properties, and machine performance, making proper storage essential.
2. Why Molecular Sieve Is the Best Desiccant
Molecular sieve is a synthetic desiccant made from zeolites, featuring uniform, microscopic pores that absorb moisture at an incredibly fast rate. Unlike silica gel or other desiccants, molecular sieve can maintain ultra-low humidity levels (<1% RH), making it ideal for high-performance filaments.
Molecular Sieve vs. Other Desiccants: A Comparison
💡 Key takeaway: Molecular sieve is the only desiccant capable of reducing humidity to below 1% RH, ensuring filament stays completely dry.
3. How Molecular Sieve Works for Filament Storage
Molecular sieve absorbs moisture faster and at lower humidity levels than other desiccants. Here’s why it’s superior for filament storage:
🔹 Removes More Moisture – Absorbs water down to a near-zero humidity level.
🔹 Works in Extreme Conditions – Performs well in both hot and humid environments.
🔹 Faster Absorption Rate – 10x more effective than silica gel at pulling moisture from filament.
🔹 Reusable & Long-Lasting – Can be heated to 250°C to fully regenerate, unlike silica gel, which degrades over time.
💡 Key takeaway: Molecular sieve prevents filament degradation better than any other desiccant.
4. Why NEXT 3DP Uses Molecular Sieve for Filament Packaging
At NEXT 3DP, we prioritize ultra-dry storage for all of our high-performance filaments. That’s why every spool is packaged using:
✅ Mylar Bags – Airtight, moisture-proof packaging to block external humidity.
✅ Molecular Sieve Desiccants – Ensures filament remains completely dry even in long-term storage.
This two-layer protection system ensures that filament stays print-ready without the risk of moisture absorption.
5. How to Store Your Filament Using Molecular Sieve
Want to keep your filament in perfect condition? Follow these steps:
1️⃣ Always store filament in an airtight Mylar bag with a molecular sieve desiccant pack.
2️⃣ Use a dry box with molecular sieve packs for long-term storage.
3️⃣ Regularly check and replace desiccants when they become saturated.
6. Conclusion: Why Molecular Sieve Is the Best Choice
NEXT 3DP chooses molecular sieve because it:
✅ Absorbs moisture faster and more efficiently than silica gel.
✅ Maintains ultra-low humidity levels (<1% RH) to prevent eliminate all moisture absorption.
✅ Outperforms traditional desiccants in high-temperature conditions.
💡 Want to keep your filament moisture-free? Choose NEXT 3DP’s Mylar-sealed, molecular sieve-packed filaments for the best storage solution available!
