BRUSSELS, Belgium—As technology advances in 3D printing, so does the demand for smaller, more intricate medical devices.
To meet this need, additive chemical provider Solvay S.A. will collaborate with PrinterPrezz 3D to design laser sintering solutions for implants and other medical devices.
PrinterPrezz, of Fremont, Calif., known as a "medifacturer," works in polymer and metal 3D printing, nanotechnologies and surgical design to 3D print "next-generation" medical devices.
"This partnership will allow us to combine our expertise in materials with PrinterPrezz's unique offering for qualification of medical devices to accelerate the adoption of 3D-printed implants and medical devices using Solvay's latest additive manufacturing powder technology for selective laser sintering," said Christophe Schramm, business manager for Solvay Specialty Polymers global business unit.
Solvay, with more than 30 years experience supplying polymers to the medical industry, makes the raw materials (like the specialized powder additive used in the laser sintering process) that can withstand exposure to bodily fluids and tissue in the human body.
"3D printing is evolving rapidly and is revolutionizing the development of advanced health care applications from concept to manufacturing," said Shri Shetty, CEO of PrinterPrezz.
PrinterPrezz offers engineering, clinical and regulatory guidance, as well as access to 3D simulation software and 3D printers.
"We can provide Solvay a gateway for the development and optimization of their high-performance polymeric additive manufacturing powders to advance the manufacturing of next-generation implants and medical devices," Shetty said.
Recently Solvay's venture capital fund, Solvay Ventures, contributed to PrinterPrezz's recent $16 million equity financing round.
"By partnering together, Solvay and PrinterPrezz will accelerate the advancement of 3D printed medical devices, providing better patient outcomes through breakthrough technology," said Thomas Canova, head of Solvay Ventures.
