VLM allows objects to be printed from resins far thicker than can be used with vat-based printers, with the higher viscosity allowing chemistry which produces tougher end-products.

Little has been disclosed about the resulting materials. Elastomeric end products is said to be one market the companies are aiming at.

“These materials can include a high fraction of oligomers to obtain a loosely cross-linked polymer network: a structure that can flexibly withstand mechanical stresses, acting like industrial-grade moulded elastomers,” said BCN3D.

Saint Gobain and Prodrive are other partner companies.

BCN3D and Henkel will be showing parts made by VLM 3D printing at the Rapid exhibition in Detroit (17 – 19 May).

Henkel is the company behind Loctite brand materials.