We develop innovative inorganic materials for additive manufacturing, focusing on ceramic components and functional coatings derived from industrial by-products. Our patented mold release system enables simplified casting of glass, metal, or concrete via water activation, already used by artists and designers.
Contact person: Zbyněk Černý
Inorganic Materials for Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing (3D printing) is increasingly used not only in prototyping but also in functional part production, including ceramics and high-temperature applications. Our team formulates printable inorganic suspensions using:
• Fly ash, slag, and other secondary raw materials,
• Stabilized with tailored additives to ensure printability, structural integrity, and thermal resistance.
The resulting 3D-printed ceramics are durable, sustainable, and suitable for use in construction, design, and heat-resistant components.
Valorization of Industrial By-products
A major benefit of our approach is the valorization of waste materials from energy and metallurgical industries. Instead of landfilling, these by-products are transformed into valuable materials via:
• Controlled particle size and reactivity adjustment,
• Integration into binder systems for extrusion or layer-by-layer printing,
• Formation of complex geometries with minimal energy input.
This supports the principles of circular economy and reduces the carbon footprint of material production.
Smart Mold System: Casting Glass, Metal, and Eco-Concrete
Beyond additive manufacturing, we have created a molding and demolding system based on specially formulated geopolymer materials. These molds:
• Can withstand high casting temperatures,
• Remain stable during pouring of glass, metal, or concrete,
• Are deactivated by water, enabling simple unmolding without mechanical force.
This system offers a revolutionary simplification of casting processes in both industry and the arts. It has already been implemented in artistic glass workshops and is protected by utility models and patents.
Design, Sculpture, and Creative Applications
Thanks to their adaptability and ease of use, our materials are increasingly used by:
• Designers and sculptors,
• Art glass producers,
• Small-scale manufacturers of concrete objects.
The system enables fast, flexible production of detailed castings with low technical requirements, opening new opportunities for creative industries.
SUMMARY:
✅ 3D printing of ceramics from industrial by-products
✅ Fire- and heat-resistant compositions
✅ Patented mold-release system activated by water
✅ Applicable to glass, metal, and eco-concrete casting
✅ Used in design and artistic production