Arkema has acquired a 10% in French start-up Erpro 3D Factory, a company specialised in large-series additive manufacturing. The transaction, said Arkema, is ‘perfectly in line with its strategy to develop its Specialty Materials in applications that address major sustainable development challenges.’
Seeking to explore the potential of additive manufacturing technology for its materials, Arkema first partnered with the additive manufacturer in 2018. The companies developed
a number of projects in cosmetics, medical, automotive and eyewear applications based on Arkema’s range of bio-based and recyclable specialty polyamides, and its N3xtDimension® liquid UV-curable resins, which proved well suited to the fast-growing and demanding 3D printing market.
Founded in 2017, Erpro 3D Factory has since produced more than 19 million parts, most of which from 100% bio-based Polyamide 11 powder, said Arkema.
Buying a stake in Erpro 3D Factory is a way to gain new expertise and accelerate the development of new applications for Arkema’s high-performance polymers. It also means that
Arkema will become a member of Erpro 3D Factory’s strategic committee, further tightening the ties between the companies.