SurFunction takes over Surcoatec: Intelligent surface solutions

SurFunction's acquisition of Surcoatec creates a new European innovation leader that combines DLIP-based micro- and nanostructuring, high-performance physical and chemical coatings and industrial series production in an integrated service portfolio for the first time. SurFunction will thus become an integrated technology provider for functional surface solutions - from prototype development and qualification to industrialized series production. At the heart of the combined technology portfolio is SurFunction's industrialized DLIP (Direct Laser Interference Patterning) technology. This broadly patented platform enables the targeted micro- and nanostructuring of surfaces to control physical, chemical or biological properties based on nature's example - for example to minimize friction, reduce germs or control adhesion.

Integration of vacuum-based thin-film technology

With the modular and leading platform Elipsys, SurFunction has already set standards for scalable, automated and inline-capable surface processes and has recently achieved further breakthroughs through the unique integration of fiber laser technologies. The integration of Surcoatec's expertise in the field of vacuum-based thin-film technology, including PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) and PECVD (Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition) coatings, is now creating a new generation of systems: DLIP-structured, functionalized surfaces with precisely matched coating systems - reproducible, suitable for industrial use and scalable. With the acquisition of Surcoatec GmbH, SurFunction has secured a top industrial location for coating and surface finishing in Düren (North Rhine-Westphalia) - with links to RWTH Aachen University and other research institutions. The Surcoatec infrastructure is fully designed for series production and is ISO 9001:2015-certified. This enables the reliable implementation of quality-critical requirements - for example in medical technology, the optical industry or aerospace. Surcoatec also brings an attractive IP base to the technology sector - including patented processes for multifunctional coating systems, adaptive hard coatings and integrative process chains. This specifically complements and expands SurFunction's existing, broad-based IP landscape, particularly in the area of structure-driven functionalization.

Market potential through the acquisition of Surcoatec

The combined technology platform specifically addresses markets with high innovation and regulatory pressure as well as important requirements for environmental friendliness. The first joint projects with customers are already underway. Particular attention is being paid to the development of sustainable technologies: The processes used enable process-integrated solutions and represent an ecologically advantageous alternative to traditional systems such as electroplating. SurFunction thus makes a substantial contribution to resource-conserving, environmentally friendly production. Dr. Dominik Britz, co-founder and Managing Director of SurFunction: "With Surcoatec, we are not only gaining an experienced team and a certified production base - we are also uniting two complementary technology worlds to form an integrated solution provider. In doing so, we are sending a strong signal for the future of intelligent surface solutions from Europe."