Quarzwerke Group
Develops mineral-based functional fillers and additives for 3D printing polymer materials, reducing shrinkage and warping in parts for stereolithography (SLA) and fused filament fabrication (FFF) processes.
- CEO / Founder
- Dr. Wolf Harlfinger, Jens-Uwe Klemens, Dr. Paul Páez-Maletz, Thomas Perterer
- Team Size
- 1001-5000
- Stage
- Active
Technology & Products
Key Products
Raw materials such as quartz, kaolin, and feldspar. High-performance functional fillers and additives for various applications, including 3D printing polymers, ceramics, and electrical/electronic applications.
Technological Advantage
VERIFIED: Mineral fillers reduce shrinkage and warping in 3D printed parts (source: 3ders.org article). CLAIMED: Fillers improve functional/optical properties of polymer systems. DEFENSIBLE: Long-standing mineral processing know-how and R&D capabilities; not explicitly patented for AM.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Enables production of higher-quality 3D printed parts with reduced defects (shrinkage, warping, delamination) through mineral fillers that improve material properties, potentially lowering scrap rates and improving dimensional accuracy for industrial applications.
How They Differentiate
Unlike general mineral suppliers, Quarzwerke's HPF division specifically develops functional fillers for 3D printing applications, with demonstrated focus on solving AM-specific material challenges (shrinkage, warping) rather than just providing raw minerals.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Polymer compounders, 3D printing material manufacturers, industrial manufacturers using AM for prototypes and small series production
Industry Verticals
Additive Manufacturing; Construction; Foundries; Glass; Polymers; Paints and coatings; DIY products
Competitors
Imerys, Sibelco, Eczacibasi Group
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Approximately 3,500 employees in the Quarzwerke Group work on contributing to the success of our customers worldwide
Major Milestones
1884: Founded in Frechen, Germany; 2017: HPF division reported developing functional fillers for 3D printing; Over 140 years in mineral extraction and processing; Approximately 3,500 employees globally
Notable Customers
Henkel & Cie.