Developing innovations on a solid foundation

"Here, we have the resources to actively help shape the future of the 3D printing market.” Anne Asmacher

The laser moves precisely over the UV resin. Layer by layer, a new component takes shape. Anyone who walks into the room housing Cubic Ink’s more than 20 3D printers is reminded of a space research laboratory. And that’s not far off the mark, because the printing materials are also suitable for use in the aerospace industry. “3D printing is evolving rapidly. Our materials must not only work; they must truly advance industrial processes,” says Anne Asmacher.

Anne Asmacher is part of the ALTANA internal startup Cubic Ink. Even during her doctoral studies, she incorporated her scientific findings directly into product development. For five years, she was responsible for projects involving innovative printing materials for industrial 3D printing, from the initial idea to the application at the customer’s site. Today, she is Technical Marketing Manager and focuses on ensuring that innovation is seamlessly integrated into Cubic Ink customers’ processes, thereby creating added value. In addition, she is responsible for product management and technical marketing.

Where agile development meets industrial demands

Cubic Ink develops and markets UV-curable printing materials that not only process seamlessly on the various printing systems available but also offer outstanding properties. Apart from specialized applications in aerospace, the automotive industry, and consumer goods, the products are used extensively in medical technology. “Overall, we see a growing demand for innovative high-performance materials, especially in the dental sector,” says Asmacher.

To tailor materials specifically to real customer requirements, all standard UV-curing 3D printing technologies are set up at the site in Lehrte. This allows new products to be tested quickly and validated directly with customers. “Our priorities are those of our customers. This customer-oriented and agile approach significantly accelerates the innovation process,” she explains.

Collaboration that drives innovation

A key factor behind this speed is the close collaboration and support within the team and across business units. Colleagues from different parts of the ALTANA Group regularly come together to share the latest development results.

“This exchange of experiences is extremely valuable to us. It opens up new perspectives and inspires ideas that we might not have come up with on our own.”

And what if the next meeting is still a long way off? “Then I just give them a quick call. Communication channels at ALTANA are short,” she reveals.

How a strong foundation fuels creativity

At the same time, Cubic Ink benefits from the ALTANA Group’s global network of laboratories and production facilities. This enables the efficient implementation of large-scale development projects and the reliable supply of large quantities of materials. As a result, Cubic Ink now serves customers from ALTANA’s sites in Germany, Switzerland, and the United States.

The Group’s financial strength also plays a role, creating the necessary conditions for developing new technologies over the long term and thinking ahead. “We have the creative freedom of a startup and, at the same time, the stability and staying power of an established company,” explains Asmacher. “This combination allows us to test new ideas and drive technologies or products forward in a targeted manner together with our customers.”

Freedom to innovate in future technologies

For Anne Asmacher, this is where ALTANA’s corporate culture shines through: with open, transparent communication and a commitment to find the best possible solution. “ALTANA gives us time, resources, and above all, trust,” she says. “That creates the foundation for us employees to actively shape the future.”

She has remained passionate about her work ever since she joined Cubic Ink in June 2020: “With our printing materials, we are shaping the future of 3D printing. Every day, I get to help bring that future to life, step by step.”