Azul 3D announces development collaboration with DuPont
Azul 3D, a Chicago start-up, announced an exclusive partnership with DuPont Electronics & Imaging. The partnership aims to bring next-generation 3D printing technologies to the forefront of the electronic materials industry.
Azul’s high-area rapid printing (HARP) stereolithographic printing technology converts liquid plastic into solids using ultraviolet light. The technology was publicly disclosed last year. The technology can vertically print objects faster than competitor systems. HARP boasts print speeds of up to 18 vertical inches per hour. HARP technology enables manufacturers to transition from prototype to mass-manufacturing on a single, streamlined production platform. In combination with its proprietary industrial-grade materials, Azul offers the opportunity for just-in-time mass production of diverse, highly customized products.
DuPont is a global supplier of materials and technologies serving the semiconductor, advanced chip packaging, circuit board, electronic and industrial finishing, display, and digital and flexographic printing industries. From advanced technology centers worldwide, teams of talented research scientists and application experts work closely with customers, providing solutions, products and technical service to enable next-generation technologies.
The collaboration between Azul and DuPont works toward enhancing the provision of these next-generation technologies. Azul’s HARP system promotes rapid local prototyping and manufacturing, which decreases DuPont’s product development and production times.
Azul’s co-founder and chair, Chad Mirkin, said that “this collaboration with DuPont is very important to us. In addition to validating the industry-enabling capabilities of HARP, it showcases our ability to use it to transform aspects of the manufacturing sector.”
DuPont’s business development director, Nick Pugliano, is equally excited: “Combining DuPont’s expertise with Azul 3D’s capabilities in 3D printing will be a powerful pathway for exploring new technology innovations. We’re looking forward to collaborating to meet emerging industry needs.”
Azul’s system enhances DuPont’s manufacturing portfolio, which already includes Artistri digital inks, which print color onto polymer fabrics. DuPont has also invested in 3D printing, and Azul’s HARP enhances the manufacturer’s portfolio.
