#USA #Medford #Cyclic Olefin #Inkbit #Thermosets

Inkbit Introduces Revolutionary Cyclic Olefin Thermosets

Medford, Massachusetts, June 16, 2025 — Inkbit, a pioneering start-up developed from MIT, has announced an exciting new product line that is poised to transform additive manufacturing in the realm of radio frequency (RF) and microwave technologies. Their new Cyclic Olefin Thermosets (COT) represent a significant leap forward in the creation of low-loss dielectric materials that cater specifically to mmWave applications.

Cyclic Olefin Thermosets offer a low-loss dielectric performance that until now has been difficult to achieve through traditional manufacturing processes. David Marini, CEO of Inkbit, expressed excitement about the potential of this launch, stating, “When coupled with our platform, which scales seamlessly from prototyping to production, this class of materials will enable rapid innovation. Opening paths for faster, cost-effective iteration, and end-use production across the radio frequency and microwave market space.” This statement encapsulates the transformative potential of this material in enhancing production efficiency and technological sophistication.

Marking a Milestone in Additive Manufacturing

With this development, Inkbit officially enters the antenna systems and wave-guiding components market. Their innovative approach provides a viable alternative to conventional methods used in the manufacture of Gradient Index (GRIN) lenses, waveguides, and beam-steering structures. Typically, these components rely on multi-step manufacturing, requiring precision machining and complex assembly processes that can introduce variability and lead to imperfections, ultimately affecting the performance of electromagnetic systems.

Inkbit’s unique approach allows engineers to manufacture these components as monolithic parts. This not only streamlines production by eliminating manual assembly but also maintains precise control over dielectric gradients and geometries, which are critical in optimizing function and performance.

Addressing Long-Standing Challenges

Before COT, achieving a balance of low dielectric loss, thermal stability, and mechanical strength in additive manufacturing was often constrained by the high costs and labor-intensive processes involved. Scott Twiddy, Materials RD Lead at Inkbit, pointed out, “Limitations around existing material options and manufacturing processes have meant complex dielectric structures have mostly been an academic curiosity for antenna engineers.” With the introduction of COT, these limitations are being challenged, with promises of elevating product development to new heights.

Engineers can now explore design variations more freely, utilizing the same dependable materials and processes from the initial development stages through to full-scale production. The COT’s unique offerings allow for fast iterations without the traditional limitations tied to material performance or delays associated with custom tooling requirements. This fundamentally shifts how engineers approach the design and development of RF components.

Key Advantages of COT for RF Designers

• - Low Dielectric Loss at mmWave Frequencies: Essential for maintaining signal integrity, minimizing energy loss in high-frequency applications.
• - Dimensional Stability Across High Temperatures: Ensures consistent performance under varying conditions, a key requirement for many RF applications.
• - High Print Resolution and Multi-Material Compatibility: Facilitates complex designs and combinations of materials without trade-offs in quality.
• - Tool-free Fabrication of Complex 3D Dielectric Geometries: Streamlines the production process, simplifying manufacturing workflows significantly.
• - GRIN Lensing Validated up to 90 GHz: Provides assurance of performance in advanced applications.
• - Auto-Generate GRIN Lattices via Inkbit Construct: Enhances design capabilities through innovative software that simplifies the generation of complex structures.

Driving the Future of mmWave Engineering

As encapsulated by Marini, “Iteration is the mother of invention.