Rapid Liquid Print, a spin-off from MIT, has secured $7 million in funding for its liquid-based 3D printing technology. Germany’s HZG Group led the investment round, with participation from BMW i Ventures and MassMutual. This funding will be used to scale production, expand the team, and explore additional business areas. Rapid Liquid Print’s technology involves drawing a liquid object within a gel suspension, allowing for the creation of complex and large-scale geometries. The entire printing process takes minutes and requires no post-processing, making it more efficient than traditional 3D printing methods.
The origins of Rapid Liquid Print trace back to Bjørn Sparrman and Schendy Kernizan, who were working at MIT’s Self-Assembly Lab. They initially used resin-based photo-cured 3D printing machines but later shifted their focus to printing with silicone rubber. The advantage of silicone rubber is its softness and durability, making it suitable for various applications. The founders left MIT in 2020 to pursue the startup full time, securing an exclusive licensing agreement with the university to use the patented technology.
Rapid Liquid Print’s technology offers new prospects for established materials in 3D printing. Unlike traditional layer-by-layer processes, liquid-based printing allows for the printing of different structures, such as lattice or lightweight structures, in a faster and more efficient way. The liquid gel used in the process is reusable, contributing to sustainability efforts. The company’s partnership with HZG Group, known for its expertise in 3D printing, will help further develop and commercialize the technology.
The German investor has a vast network in machine manufacturing, which is exciting for Rapid Liquid Print as it aims to expand its operations. While the current focus is on doing 3D printing for customers, the company plans to develop printers that customers can purchase and use on their own in the future. By starting with customer orders, Rapid Liquid Print can lower start-up costs and gain insights into the technology’s capabilities. The company already has a customer using its technology for prosthetic cushion liners, showcasing the potential for creating unique and customized products.
Rapid Liquid Print’s technology is inspiring new ideas and improvements in product design. The ability to create complex geometries and soft, durable materials opens up new possibilities for industries such as automotive, medical, and consumer goods. With its focus on soft printed objects, Rapid Liquid Print aims to become a leader in this space.
Overall, Rapid Liquid Print’s liquid-based 3D printing technology has the potential to revolutionize the manufacturing industry by offering faster production times, greater design flexibility, and improved sustainability. With the support of HZG Group and its expertise in 3D printing, Rapid Liquid Print is well-positioned to advance its technology and bring it to market on an industrial scale.