PRESS RELEASE
SurFunction acquires Surcoatec – New European innovation leader for intelligent surface solutions is created
SurFunction GmbH, a deep- and green-tech pioneer in the field of laser-based surface enhancement inspired by nature, announces the successful completion of the acquisition of Surcoatec GmbH. This strategically significant acquisition creates a new European innovation leader, combining DLIP-based micro- and nanostructuring, physical and chemical high-performance coatings, and industrial series production in a comprehensive service portfolio for the first time.
Technological platform with industrial maturity
SurFunction is becoming an integrated technology provider for functional surface solutions – from prototype development and qualification to industrialized series production. This sets new standards for industries that place the highest demands on precision, reliability, and functionality.
At the heart of the combined technology portfolio is SurFunction’s industrialized DLIP (Direct Laser Interference Patterning) technology. This broadly patented platform enables the targeted micro- and nanostructuring of surfaces to control physical, chemical, or biological properties based on nature’s model – for example, to minimize friction, reduce germs, or control adhesion.
With its modular and leading ELIPSYS® platform, SurFunction has already set standards for scalable, automated, and inline-capable surface processes and recently achieved further breakthroughs through the unique integration of fiber laser technologies. The integration of Surcoatec’s expertise in vacuum-based thin-film technology, including PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) and PECVD (Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition) coatings, is now creating a new system generation: DLIP-structured, functionalized surfaces with precisely coordinated coating systems – reproducible, industrially viable, and scalable.
Industrial location with quality assurance and implementation expertise
With the acquisition of Surcoatec GmbH, SurFunction secures a top industrial location for coating and surface finishing in Düren (North Rhine-Westphalia) – with connections to RWTH Aachen University and other research institutions. The Surcoatec infrastructure is fully designed for series production capability and is ISO 9001:2015 certified. This enables the reliable implementation of quality-critical requirements – for example, in medical technology, the optical industry, or aerospace.
In addition, Surcoatec brings an attractive IP base to the technology sector – including patented processes for multifunctional layer systems, adaptive hard coatings, and integrative process chains. This specifically complements and expands SurFunction’s existing, broad intellectual property landscape, particularly in the area of structure-driven functionalization.
Market potential and applications with high added value
The combined technology platform specifically addresses markets with high innovation and regulatory pressure, as well as important environmental requirements. Initial joint projects with customers have already begun.
The main application areas include:
• Medical technology: Development of antibacterial, anti-adhesive and color-coded instruments with the highest standards of biocompatibility, hygiene and documentation
• Optics & Sensor Technology: Combination of coatings and anti-reflective microstructures for scratch-resistant, low-reflection, and IR-transparent lenses in high-end camera systems
• Tool and Mold Making: Structured, wear-optimized tool surfaces with thermal and tribological resistance
• Mobility & Mechanical Engineering: Hybrid functional surfaces for energy-efficient, resilient components in drive, pump, or sealing systems
Sustainability and resource efficiency as a guiding principle
Particular attention is paid to the development of sustainable technologies: The processes used enable process-integrated solutions and represent an ecologically advantageous alternative to traditional systems such as electroplating. SurFunction thus makes a substantial contribution to resource-efficient, environmentally friendly manufacturing.
Dr. Dominik Britz, co-founder and managing director of SurFunction: “With Surcoatec, we are not only gaining an experienced team and a certified manufacturing base – we are also combining two complementary technology worlds into one integrated solutions provider. In doing so, we are setting a strong example for the future of intelligent surface solutions from Europe.”
Strategic anchoring and global perspective
The combination of SurFunction’s locations in Saarbrücken and Dresden (DLIP expertise, research & technology development) and Düren (production & series coating) creates a powerful, geographically well-connected organization in the heart of important industrial regions. Proximity to manufacturers, innovation clusters, and research institutions in North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saxony, Saarland, and the Greater Luxembourg/France region enables short communication routes and a high degree of cooperation.
At the same time, the new corporate structure is explicitly geared toward international scaling – whether through technology partnerships, licensing models, or complete solutions. Combining industrial implementation power with IP-protected technological leadership creates a strong basis for differentiation in international competition and a rapidly growing market.
Niklas Raberg, partner at Capnamic and investor in SurFunction, commented: “The acquisition of Surcoatec is a logical and strategically excellent step to accelerate the translation of SurFunction’s technological leadership into many industrial applications. We see enormous potential here to establish a European reference platform for smart and sustainable surfaces – with a strong IP position, a scalable business model, and a dedicated team. Capnamic will continue to actively support this path in the future.”
Interested customers and partners can obtain further information about the technology and live demonstrations directly from SurFunction.