Datwyler eyes innovative elastomer technologies with Swiss acquisition

Schattdorf, Switzerland – Datwyler has strengthened its innovative polymer capabilities with the acquisition of Swiss startup CTsystems.

A spin-off of the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA), the Zurich-based high-tech startup specialises in dielectric elastomer.

The acquisition follows four years of collaboration between the two sides to develop electroactive polymers, said the Schattdorf group in an 8 Sept statement, noting the purchase will secure patents for the technology.

The parties agreed not to disclose the terms of the agreement.

With a ‘unique stacked design’, electroactive polymers enable new applications in a number of areas, including the car of the future and in general industry, said Datwyler.

In particular, the Swiss group expects to use the technology to produce stack actuators, for the first time, on an industrial scale.

The product can replace conventional actuator technologies to offer low energy consumption, fewer mechanical parts, low weight and volume as well as a “robust and durable” design.

Datwyler is currently working to build a “proprietary, highly automated production line” at its existing plant in Schattdorf for the manufacture of the actuators.

Lab samples are already available, and delivery of the first industrial prototypes is planned for early 2024.

According to Datwyler, the stacked electroactive polymers offer a wide range of novel actuator and sensor applications.

The actuators can be used to control switches, locks, valves and to operate pumps.

Applications include thermal management in electric vehicle batteries, as well as actuation of mechanical components, dashboard vents or valves for pneumatic massage seats.

Electroactive polymers can also realise haptic feedback and morphing surfaces for human-machine interface applications.

Examples include haptic feedback on displays and on the steering wheel, or control elements morphing out of a plain surface.

Datwyler said it is currently in talks with existing and potential customers and exploring initial development projects.

"With our strengthened expertise in electroactive polymers, we are a leading supplier for smart-rubber applications,” said CEO Dirk Lambrecht.

“I am convinced that the technology with electroactive polymers has the potential to become one of our high-revenue product lines in the long term," he added.