REDWOOD CITY, CA, Feb 20, 2025 – Carbon has announced the development of FP3D, a flexible, removable partial denture (FRPD) resin, at LMTLab DayChicago 2025. The material introduces Carbon’s proven dual-cure chemistry to the dental industry, offering significant advancements in the performance and reliability of dental appliances.
FP3D: Setting a New Standard in Flexible Removable Partial Dentures
FP3D redefines the possibilities of 3D-printed dental resins. This is Carbon’s first dental resin using its exclusive dual-cure chemistry, a technology that has prompted innovation in various industries. FP3D was designed to enhance durability, flexibility, and strength, aiming to match the properties of some traditional polymer-based flexible partial denture materials. It is expected to launch in late 2025, pending FDA approval, and could change the future of 3D-printed removable partial dentures.
The Significance of Dual-Cure Chemistry in Dental Applications
Traditional single-cure resins often do not meet the needs of challenging dental applications. They lack the strength, retention, and lifespan required for flexible partial uses. Carbon’s FP3D material addresses these issues by embedding secondary heat-activated chemistry within the resin. This additional reaction allows the material to gain strength and durability during baking without affecting viscosity and accuracy during printing. This chemistry produces durable, engineering-grade parts with consistent mechanical properties and high endurance.
By introducing dual-cure technology to the dental industry, Carbon aims to enhance the performance and reliability of dental appliances, offering dental professionals and patients the benefits of advanced material science.
Proven Dual-Cure Chemistry across Industries
Carbon’s dual-cure technology has been validated in various sectors:
- Sports Equipment: In partnership with Riddell, Carbon developed the first-ever 3D-printed football helmet liner featuring a lattice structure for enhanced protection and comfort.
- Footwear: Collaborations with leading athletic brands have led to the production of high-performance midsoles, delivering improved energy return and durability.
- Cycling: Customized bike saddles created in collaboration with top cycling companies utilize dual-cure technology to provide unprecedented comfort and performance.
Expanding the Automatic Operation Suite: Enhancing Dental Lab Efficiency
Building upon the success of the AO Suite launched in 2024; Carbon is introducing new tools designed to automate further and streamline dental lab workflows:
- Automatic Print Preparation Software: This no-code, user-friendly software allows users to automate critical steps in the printing process, from nesting to queuing, reducing manual intervention and enhancing operational efficiency. Automatic Print Preparation empowers labs to scale their production consistently and is now available for order.
- AO Polishing Cassette Expansion: Now compatible with the M3 and M3 Max printers, the AO Polishing Cassette utilizes advanced light-scattering technology to polish parts directly during printing. This results in smoother and clearer parts right off the printer, reducing manual labor and preserving intricate design details. Validated for leading materials such as Dentsply’s Lucitone Digital Print and Desktop Health’s Flexcera Base, this expansion elevates the production of denture bases and other dental applications.
Advancing Digital Dentistry with Carbon’s Vision
The developments underscore Carbon’s dedication to advancing digital dentistry. By introducing dual-cure technology and expanding automation solutions, Carbon continues to set the standard for reliability and innovation in the dental industry.
Source: Carbon
About Carbon
Carbon, founded in 2013 and headquartered in Redwood City, CA, is a 3D printing technology company specializing in additive manufacturing solutions. The company offers a range of products, including the M1 and M2 printers and a brilliant part washer, all utilizing their proprietary Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP) technology. This approach enables rapid, layer-less 3D printing by combining software, hardware, and molecular science. Carbon’s technology allows businesses to design, develop, and manufacture high-performance products with enhanced comfort and protection, serving industries such as automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods. With a presence in 17 countries, Carbon continues to expand its global footprint. As of 2022, Carbon employs approximately 585 individuals.
