Hochschule Trier
A university research facility that operates a Vacuum Inert Gas Atomization (VIGA) system to produce spherical metal powders from recycled scrap for additive manufacturing, aiming to create a climate-neutral feedstock.
- CEO / Founder
- Prof. Dr. Norbert Kuhn
- Team Size
- 501-1000
- Stage
- Established
- Latest Round
- Grant
- Key Investors
- European Union
Technology & Products
Key Products
Metal powder production via VIGA from scrap; Additive manufacturing research and testing services; 3D printing educational programs
Technological Advantage
Proprietary VIGA process adapted for recycled scrap input produces spherical powders suitable for LPBF; the sustainability angle aligns with EU Green Deal regulations, creating a potential cost and environmental advantage for local powder supply chains. The research is at pilot stage; commercial viability depends on scaling and quality validation against ASTM/ISO standards.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Enables production of metal AM powders from recycled scrap, reducing carbon footprint and material costs compared to virgin powder production, while supporting circular economy goals in European manufacturing.
How They Differentiate
Focuses exclusively on powder production from recycled scrap using VIGA, unlike competitors using virgin materials or plasma atomization; offers a localized, low-carbon alternative but at research scale versus industrial production.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Research institutions, industrial partners in metal AM seeking sustainable powder solutions
Industry Verticals
Aerospace; Automotive; Medical; Research & Development
Competitors
6K Additive; AP&C; Höganäs
Growth & Milestones
Major Milestones
Commissioned VIGA system for metal powder production from scrap (2026)