SpaceSpoon by SurFunction GmbH: Spoons refined using laser technology make collectors’ hearts beat faster
The surface specialist SurFunction GmbH has launched a unique high-tech collector’s item with the support of the Saarland company Villeroy & Boch. In a strictly limited edition (100 pieces), the so-called “SpaceSpoon” stands as a symbol for technological progress and innovation “Made in Saarland”. Three prototypes of the spoon have already traveled to space on the International Space Station (ISS) for research purposes. From September 22, 2022, the Villeroy & Boch spoon, optically and functionally refined by SurFunction using laser technology, can be ordered via the web address www.spacespoon.de
From space to your dining room
As part of the research experiments on the behavior of microorganisms on metallic surfaces on the ISS, the SpaceSpoon traveled into orbit: The Saarland ESA astronaut and materials scientist Matthias Maurer took three of these SpaceSpoons with him to the ISS in order to put the scientific experiments running there into context of everyday food intake. The technology “DLIP – Direct Laser Interference Patterning” used for the spoon was developed by the co-founders of SurFunction GmbH Prof. Dr. Frank Mücklich and Prof. Dr. Andrés Lasagni, which they invented 20 years ago. The technology has been used in industrial applications for the first time since 2020.
Not just for space fans…
In order to make the innovative laser-based technology visible to a wide audience, SurFunction enhances the Villeroy & Boch spoons with structures the size of a bacterium. A precise laser creates a very fine and extremely even surface pattern. The technology is non-contact and gives the stainless-steel spoon a rainbow-colored, iridescent look. The collectibles produced are designed as a replica of the three original spoons with an upgraded design, commemorating the historic moment of the space mission.
About SurFunction:
Surfunction is a leading provider for non-contact surface modification. The company, headquartered in Saarbrücken (Saarland), uses a wide variety of laser-based processes based on award-winning and patented interference technologies (xDLIP). In this way, cost-effective, multi-scale surface structures are possible in record times, which have their model in living nature. Surfaces can be equipped with new properties (e.g. non-stick, antibacterial, energy-efficient, low-friction, highly electrically conductive or counterfeit-proof). True to the claim “nature knows best”, Surfunction opens up new innovation potential and significant competitive advantages for companies from numerous industries.
About Villeroy & Boch:
There are certain moments that make life special. With this in mind, Villeroy & Boch improves the environment of its customers and meets the highest standards: Villeroy & Boch combines an awareness of tradition with a spirit of innovation and stands for class and sophistication. Since it was founded in 1748, the company has developed into one of the world’s leading brands in the ceramics industry and at the same time into a lifestyle brand. Villeroy & Boch is divided into the Bathroom & Wellness and Dining & Lifestyle divisions and offers products for private households as well as for special projects.