Supernova, an emerging player in the field of additive manufacturing, has announced the creation of a new business unit called Supernova Defense & Space. This division specializes in 3D printing technology of energetic materials used in the aerospace and defense industry. With this development, Supernova aims to overcome the limitations of conventional manufacturing processes and open up new technological possibilities.
Supernova uses a proprietary technology called Viscous Lithography Manufacturing (VLM), an additive manufacturing process based on lithography. In contrast to conventional 3D printing processes, which rely on low-viscosity resins, VLM can process materials with a viscosity up to 100 times higher. This enables the use of materials with longer oligomer chains, resulting in superior mechanical properties.
Energetic materials, which are generally used in propellants and explosives, are known for their ability to release large amounts of energy quickly. However, traditional processing methods, such as molding or extrusion, severely limit the geometric design possibilities. Supernova’s VLM technology overcomes these limitations by enabling the processing of formulations with a solids content of over 88%. This opens up new perspectives for the development of complex and high-performance components.
“Supernova Defense & Space represents our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible to manufacture.” said Roger Antunez, Founder and CEO at Supernova “By pioneering 3D printing of energetic materials, we’re not just advancing technology—we’re providing the tools to the engineers to innovate and reshape the future of defense and space industries.”
A key advantage of 3D printing is the geometric freedom it offers. Especially in military applications, where the formulation of the materials often has a solid content of over 80%, conventional 3D printing reaches its limits. Supernova’s ability to process such highly viscous materials represents a significant advance and makes it possible to produce customized components with improved properties.
The first applications of this technology include solid rocket motors (SRMs), where increased combustion efficiency and specific thrust profiles are sought. Other areas of application include special explosives capable of improving detonation performance and projectile cores designed to offer higher speed and lower weight.
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