Covestro, a prominent manufacturer of polymer materials and components, has been recognized as a “Winner” of the prestigious “German Innovation Award 2024” for its groundbreaking Arfinio® technology. This award, presented by the German Design Council, acknowledges exceptional innovation achievements in the category of “Excellence in B2B: Materials and Surfaces.”
Arfinio® stands out for its ability to rapidly produce lightweight, repairable, and recyclable solid surface materials, marking a significant advancement in the field. This technological breakthrough, developed in collaboration with Arcesso Dynamics, a manufacturer of custom polyurethane parts, utilizes liquid high-performance polymers and unique minerals in the RIM process (reaction injection molding). This innovative combination allows for the creation of seamless shapes and surfaces, a feat previously considered unattainable.
Joan Miquel García Martínez, Senior Project Manager of Arfinio® at Covestro, expressed delight at receiving the award, stating, “Arfinio® is a real breakthrough for design, surfaces, and sustainability. This award shows the relevance of combining design, manufacturing technology, and materials for the development of new products and confirms that we are on the right track.”
The Arfinio® technology not only enables the production of durable and lightweight products but also supports sustainability efforts. The materials can be produced using partially bio-based raw materials, and at the end of their life cycle, they can be mechanically recycled and reused for the production of new products. This sustainable approach aligns with Covestro’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
The award ceremony, held on May 14 at the Futurium in Berlin, was attended by approximately 300 invited guests. The evaluation of candidates for the award is conducted by an independent, interdisciplinary expert jury, which considers projects launched on the market within the past five years or nominated by the council.
Covestro’s Arfinio® technology has not only demonstrated its excellence in innovation but also its potential to revolutionize the design and manufacturing industries, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
