The results mark another step forward in proving the durability of Horizon’s proprietary metal coatings in the most extreme environments, including outer space.

(Karlsruhe, Germany, 21st October 2025) Horizon Microtechnologies has achieved a significant milestone in its testing and validation program, with metal coated micro-3D printed components successfully passing radiation resistance testing. The results mark another step forward in proving the durability of Horizon's proprietary metal coatings in the most extreme environments, including outer space.

The test was designed to explore two long-standing technical concerns:
• Would radiation exposure compromise the coating or its adhesion to the polymer substrate?
No. The coatings remained fully adhered and structurally intact throughout the simulated exposure period.
• Would radiation degrade the polymer substrate itself?

Yes. As expected, radiation caused an increase in brittleness. The important aspect was whether the polymer would become unacceptably brittle. The question whether "more brittle" means "too brittle" is component and application specific. The data now collected on the irradiated parts can be used for simulations that answer this question for a given part. Also, in a satellite component, the degradation would only occur after the typical launch-phase mechanical loads, meaning the highest stresses would be experienced by not-yet-irradiated parts. Therefore, the practical application limits will in all likelihood be set by the non-irradiated mechanical properties.

Andreas Frölich, CEO of Horizon, comments, "This is about delivering proof, rigorous, transparent, and relevant. Our data shows that coated polymer parts can perform reliably even in high-radiation environments, making them increasingly viable for space missions."

Where brittleness might still present challenges beyond launch, Horizon offers customer-specific support, using its test data to help optimise part geometries and designs. This ensures solutions can be tailored to reduce post-radiation stress points, maintaining both performance and safety.
The testing simulated a radiation dose equivalent to approximately four years in a low earth orbit, aligning closely with the expected operational life of many satellite components. Horizon's technology is designed to combine precision micro-AM with high-performance coatings, offering benefits such as:
• Very high electrical conductivity
• Lightweighting (up to 80% weight savings compared to solid metal)
• Geometric complexity unmatched by conventional manufacturing

This radiation milestone joins other validated performance tests already passed by Horizon, including temperature shock and outgassing, reinforcing the robustness of its process.
Frölich adds, "Each successful test expands the envelope of where and how our technology can be used. We're not just qualifying parts, we're enabling new possibilities."

Horizon continues to advance its testing roadmap. Each step is part of a larger mission to provide industry with the confidence that coated 3D-printed micro parts are ready for tomorrow's most demanding applications.

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