UpNano occupies a niche in additive manufacturing by focusing on two-photon polymerization (TPP), a process that achieves sub-micron resolution by using focused laser pulses to cure photopolymer resins. Unlike conventional stereolithography or digital light processing, TPP enables true 3D structuring at the microscale, which is critical for applications such as microfluidics, optical components, and tissue engineering. The company differentiates itself from established TPP competitors like Nanoscribe and Microlight3D by emphasizing print speed alongside resolution, a combination that addresses a key bottleneck in high-precision microfabrication.
The company's core product line includes the NanoOne series of printers, with variants such as the NanoOne Bio and NanoOne Green. The NanoOne Bio is designed specifically for printing live cells within hydrogel scaffolds, enabling cellular and tissue applications that require both biocompatibility and fine structural control. The NanoOne Green targets broader micro-manufacturing needs, including electronics and optics. All systems combine high laser power with intuitive software to streamline the workflow from design to print.
UpNano's target customers are research facilities, universities, and businesses worldwide. Notable users include the University of Bath, the Medical University of Vienna, and Roche, indicating adoption in both academic biomedical research and pharmaceutical development. The company also partners with the MIT.nano Consortium and distributor AXT Pty Ltd to extend its reach into North American and Asia-Pacific markets. In 2023, UpNano reported a 57% increase in turnover, suggesting growing demand for its TPP systems.
The company holds six registered patents in the plastics working category, which likely cover aspects of its optical path, resin formulations, or process control. Its investors include aws Gründungsfonds, Novacapital, IGO Innovation GmbH, and ILUM Tec, with total disclosed funding of $7.6 million. A key open question is whether UpNano can scale beyond the research lab into high-volume industrial microfabrication, where competing technologies like two-photon grayscale lithography or nanoimprint may offer cost advantages for certain applications.
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