Two researchers from POLYMAT have taken their work out of the lab and into industry with the creation of HEVEA3D. Founded in July 2025 by Jon Ayestaran and Xabier Lopez de Pariza, the Donostia-based spin-off develops water-based 3D-printable resins to produce high-performance elastic parts without the need for costly metal molds.

Traditional rubber injection manufacturing requires bespoke molds that can cost tens of thousands of euros and take weeks to make. HEVEA3D’s UV-curable resins enable layer-by-layer production of elastic components, cutting initial tooling costs and increasing flexibility — particularly for short series and prototypes.

Beyond cost savings, sustainability is central to the project: the aqueous resin formulations reduce reliance on organic solvents and can incorporate biobased inputs such as natural rubber.

The technology has potential across sectors with heavy use of elastomeric parts — including automotive, industrial robotics and even customized healthcare products. The founders emphasize that their goal is to complement, not replace, established manufacturing methods.

Both Ayestaran and López de Pariza continue their research roles at POLYMAT while building the company and navigating the challenges of scientific entrepreneurship.

Read more and listen to the full interview here: https://cadenaser.com/euskadi/2026/03/04/imprimir-lo-que-antes-era-imposible-la-apuesta-de-dos-investigadores-de-polymat-radio-san-sebastian/