Press Room: Fast Facts

Fast Facts... 

Stereolithography is a layer additive rapid-prototyping process based on the use of photopolymer liquid resins which solidify when exposed to UV light.  A software program transfers the designer's 3-D CAD model into an electronic file for stereolithography machines ('STL'format), composing the information into thin cross sections or layers. A laser beam then traces each layer onto the surface of a vat of photopolymer resin, building the part in repeated layers until a solid replica of the original CAD model is completed.

Somos® Stereolithography Resins range from the industry's first transparent, tough and durable resins (Somos® WaterClear 10120) to flexible resins for material properties similar to polyethylene or polypropylene to the heat-resistant, humidity-tolerant, high-accuracy epoxy resins suitable for investment casting and direct tooling applications. Each family of Somos® photopolymer epoxy resins is comprised of materials singularly formulated and optimized for the variety of Stereolithography platforms commercially available: Somos® XX'00' resins are for use in Argon ion laser systems; Somos® XX'10' for Helium Cadmium laser systems; Somos® XX'20' resins for platforms utilizing Solid State laser systems.

Somos® is a brand of Royal DSM N.V.—a global science-based company active in health, nutrition and materials.  Somos® stereolithography materials are produced by DSM Functional Materials, a Business Unit within DSM’s Performance Materials cluster and a leading innovator of high-performance Stereolithography materials. 

DSM delivers innovative solutions that nourish, protect and improve performance in global markets such as food and dietary supplements, personal care, feed, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, automotive, paints, electrical and electronics, life protection, alternative energy and bio-based materials. DSM’s 22,000 employees deliver annual net sales of about € 9 billion.

Press Release Archive

Image Library

Media Contacts