Oerlikon to acquire Scoperta Inc

Oerlikon has signed an agreement to acquire Scoperta Inc, an innovative solution provider in advanced materials development, based in California, USA. With the acquisition, Oerlikon gains for its Surface Solutions Segment unique and proprietary process technology and expertise in rapidly designing and developing materials using computational software, which enables a fast identification of disruptive material solutions.

Although much of the technological development supported by advanced materials, particularly in industrial applications, remains invisible to the general public, advanced materials play an increasing key role in the design and development of industrial products and systems. Advanced materials such as metal-based materials (nickel, titanium, cobalt, steel, etc.), nanomaterials and other materials with high-performance characteristics are increasingly finding their way into automobiles, aircrafts, building materials, medical devices, clothing and other industries. They are vital in providing critical solutions for performance enhancements, efficiency improvements and cost reductions, while often also contributing to environmental sustainability.

The acquisition of Scoperta strengthens Oerlikon’s position in the market for metallic and ceramic materials and extends the scope of services to customers in terms of developing individualized materials in significantly reduced development times and costs. Scoperta will benefit from Oerlikon’s extensive access to industrial customers, distribution channels and production supply chain. Both parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

Dr Roland Fischer, CEO of the Oerlikon Group, said: “The expertise and team from Scoperta adds great value and complements well with Oerlikon’s existing strong materials heritage and competence. With industries seeking solutions to improve performance and sustainability, the need for advanced materials and products is continuously growing. This investment underscores our aim to stay at the forefront of the new era of innovating for advanced materials, which will be used in surface solutions and also in additive manufacturing. In our transition to become a powerhouse in surface solutions and advanced materials, such targeted and selective investments will reinforce our in-house capabilities and provide additional growth opportunities for Oerlikon.”