Horizon Microtechnologies has developed a template-based 3D microfabrication technology that allows manufacturers to add conductivity to all or selected parts a microfabricated component.
The company’s technology is a mechanism to exploit the usefulness of polymer micro additively manufactured (micro AM) 3D microstructures (the template) by adding material and functionality to the microstructure, typically with a coating process. The technology is well suited for manufacturers of electrodes, electrical sensor heads and ESD-safe components.
Horizon’s post-build coating technology builds upon the opportunities afforded through the use of micro AM-produced parts by adding functionality, specifically conductivity and environmental resistance. The company can even coat difficult areas homogeneously, such as long narrow channels and undercuts. In addition, microfabricated 3D templates can also be coated with metal oxides to make parts compatible with aggressive chemical environments and notably increase resistance to high temperatures and mechanical stresses.
The ability to add conductivity to all or selected parts of a 3D microfabricated template is well suited for previously unserved areas of industry. Horizon is involved in numerous application-specific discussions with manufacturers across a variety of industry sectors.
“We have researched and developed our template-based 3D microfabrication technology over many years, and while this is done in consultation with manufacturers and sensitive to market demands and dynamics, only when you commercially launch can you see and assess the level of real practical interest,” said Andreas Frölich, CEO at Horizon Microtechnologies.
“Since announcing the commercial availability of our technology, we have been somewhat overwhelmed by the highly qualified and application-specific nature of the conversations we are now having with customers.”
The technology meets the demand from companies that want to benefit from the advantages and opportunities that exist through the use of micro AM but want parts that have functionality impossible due to limited material options that micro AM is able to process. Horizon works with customers to optimize outcomes using design for micro AM and design for template-based microfabrication expertise.
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