Royal DSM, one of the first third-party photopolymer 3D printing resin supplier, is partnering with Adaptive3D, a younger company also specializing photopolymer resins. As per the agreement, DSM will help produce, distribute and sell Adaptive3D’s newest product, Soft ToughRubber, guaranteeing the availability in production volumes worldwide.
Large available quantities are a good thing because this new durable, tough and yet elastic material is tailored for mass production applications. It will enable manufacturers to explore applications in medical models as well as consumer products such as audio earbuds and footwear. In fact, the material combines the feel and mechanical properties of silicone with the resolution and surface finish that Digital Light Processing (DLP) printing provides.
“This partnership allows us to combine DSM’s global supply chain and strong relationships in key markets with Adaptive3D’s proprietary material innovations”, explained Noud Steffens, Market Development Director Additive Manufacturing at DSM. “Yet another example of how DSM’s commitment to build a global additive manufacturing ecosystem offers Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) across the globe access to cutting-edge materials.”
Shaping the future of mass production
DSM invested in Adaptive3D Technologies earlier in 2019. The two companies are showcasing DSM Soft ToughRubber for the first time at Rapid show now underway in Detroit. DSM believes that innovative materials such as Soft ToughRubber can pave the way to applications that will reinvent the way we design and manufacture products.
“Aside from new applications in consumer products and medical models, Soft ToughRubber adds to the available materials for manufacturers looking for sustainable options”, added Walter Voit, founder and CEO of Adaptive3D Technologies. “Thanks to additive manufacturing, we are able to reduce material waste in parts production. DLP printing also uses light instead of heat to cure materials, leading to dramatically lower energy consumption and a lower carbon footprint.”
DSM and Adaptive3D will continue working together closely to explore new applications and develop materials that best meet market needs. The companies will focus on and codevelop materials that enable next-generation soft, flexible and elastic solutions. These will create new possibilities for innovative applications in footwear, textiles, automotive and electronic appliances, amongst others. As such, both consumers and producers stand to benefit from the improved and high-performance materials developed by DSM and Adaptive3D.
