DSM Somos ProtoComposites™ are resins reinforced with various materials, such as ceramics and glasses, to produce functional properties not possible using individual components. DSM Somos ProtoComposite materials are a result of a significant research and development program investigating the potential for ACT-SL™ (Advanced Composite Technology for StereoLithography).
DSM Somos ProtoFunctional® resins for stereolithography provide advanced technology to respond to the changing needs of new product development and industrial design. In 2003, DSM Somos announced ProtoTool™ ceramic-filled resins, the first member belonging to the new ACT-SL™ technology and the result of a significant research and development program. Traditional non-composite ProtoFunctional materials by DSM Somos satisfy a varying range of characteristics: transparency, superior humidity and heat resistance, and outstanding mechanical properties, replicating those of many production grade plastics such as polypropylene, polyethylene, ABS and PBT. Technical data on all Somos materials may be found at www.dsmsomos.com
What is stereolithography?
Stereolithography (SL) permits the rapid creation of 3D pieces utilizing a computer-controlled laser that polymerizes light-sensitive resins. The process is highly precise and constructs the object in a series of "additive layers," providing the advantage of producing highly complex forms that are difficult or impossible to fabricate by machining or traditional molding techniques. The evolution of advanced SL materials offers the potential of moving stereolithography from prototyping into production.
About DSM Somos
DSM Somos ( www.dsmsomos.com ) is an unincorporated division of DSM Desotech (www.dsmdesotech.com)—a world leader in the development of UV-curable materials—and a member of the global DSM family. DSM Somos' corporate office is located at: 2 Penn's Way, New Castle, DE 19720, USA, Tel. +1-302-326-8100, Americas@dsmsomos.info . For more information on DSM Somos in Europe: Fax. +39 06 9871694, Europe@dsmsomos.info
About DSM
DSM is active worldwide in life science and nutritional products, performance materials and industrial chemicals. With annual sales (pro forma including the recent acquisition renamed DSM Nutritional Products) of approximately EUR 8 billion, DSM employs about 25,000 people worldwide and ranks among the global leaders in many of its fields. DSM products are found in a wide range of end markets such as human and animal nutrition and health, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, automotive, coatings, and electrics & electronics (E&E). DSM is headquartered in the Netherlands, with locations in Europe, Asia and the Americas. For more information on DSM, log on to www.dsm.com
