Closing the Loop on San Antonio’s 3D Printing Waste.
Phase 1: The Lab is Warming Up.
Our Mission:
“Waste is only waste if we waste it.” > 3D-PO is a veteran-owned materials lab dedicated to the sustainable lifecycle of 3D printing. We are currently calibrating our local “Scrap-to-Spool” pipeline to turn failed prints into high-quality, recycled filament right here in the Alamo City.
3D-PO Status
Lab Environment Secured
Systems in Procurement
Beta pickup requests and dropoff locations beginning Q4 2026
Coming Soon
We are currently working to develop a system for accepting clean PLA from local makers. Our first goal is to create scheduled times and locations for dropping off materials or a means for scheduling material pickup.
For updates on material drop-off and pick-up, join our mailing list. We promise not to trash your inbox.
What is “clean PLA”?
100% Pure PLA: Absolutely no mixing with PETG, ABS, or TPU. If a part is a “multi-material” print, it cannot be accepted.
Zero Hardware: All metal inserts, screws, magnets, and electronics must be removed.
Adhesive-Free: Scrap must be free of glue stick residue, hairspray, or tape. If you used a brim with glue, please snip that section off before donating.
Unfinished Surface: We cannot accept parts that have been painted, clear-coated, or smoothed with chemical solvents (like ethyl acetate).
Contaminant-Free: Materials must be free of dirt, heavy oils, or printer grease (such as lithium grease from lead screws).
Dry & Separated: While we dry all material before recycling, please keep your scrap in a dry, sealed bag to prevent mold or deep moisture degradation.