As part of a drive to expand its portfolio through strategic acquisitions, German consumer chemicals producer Henkel (Düsseldorf; www.henkel.com) has bought 3D printing company Molecule (Concord, California / USA; www.molecule.ink) for an undisclosed sum. The US firm’s portfolio comprises a range of products for such 3D-printing applications as medical devices, aerospace, automotive and various consumer goods as well as industrial inkjet materials.

Henkel said Molecule’s 3D printing and inkjet resin technologies and digital development capabilities perfectly complement and strengthen its own materials portfolio and build on its approach to offer a comprehensive range of customised additive manufacturing solutions. The acquired company’s technology and engineering centre in California are expected to broaden the German group’s global footprint for 3D printing, enabling it to support customers in all major world regions, Henkel added.