Arctic Biomaterials is not just another biomaterial company – they’re pioneers redefining the future of healthcare, headquartered in Tampere, Finland. The story revolves around harnessing the potential of Arctic’s natural mineral fiber technology, meticulously crafted by their R&D department.
Interview Miika Lehtola, Executive Vice President at Arctic Biomaterials Ltd.
Easy Engineering: A brief description of the company and its activities.
Miika Lehtola: At Arctic Biomaterials, we’re not just another biomaterial company – we’re pioneering the future of healthcare, headquartered in Tampere, Finland. Our story revolves around harnessing the potential of our natural mineral fiber technology, the X3 fiber. The technology is meticulously crafted by our R&D department.
We craft bioresorbable materials for orthopedics and a wide array of healthcare applications. Our groundbreaking medical-grade bioresorbable fiber composite materials can even be used in load-bearing applications. The secret sauce is the unparalleled implant strength and bioactivity that kickstarts bone growth.
Our natural mineral fiber composites boast the ultimate mechanical properties, nurturing a pH environment conducive to bone remodeling, healing, and sparking a harmonious interaction between bone and implant while encouraging osteogenesis.
E.E: What are the main areas of activity of the company?
M.L: Arctic Biomaterials is no stranger to the spotlight in the biomaterial world. Our technology was awarded as the Bio-based Material of the Year 2018 and our team has masterminded over 100 groundbreaking orthopedic implants, and our material technology propels these implants to uncharted territories. And it doesn’t stop there – our ambitious R&D projects transcend orthopedics, venturing into the realm of other medical specialties.
E.E: What’s the news about new products?
M.L: Our Evolvecomp™, a natural mineral fiber composite tailored from our X3 fiber, designed for injection molding, boasts strength and bioactivity that sets it apart from run-of-the-mill bioresorbable implants. We’re talking double the strength of regular polymer composites or bioceramic compositions.
And then, there’s our upcoming X3 continuous natural mineral fiber composite. It packs a punch with 6-7 times the strength of conventional polymer materials. Imagine strength close to metal, all while maintaining bioactivity and bone integration – it’s a game-changer for orthopedic applications.
But we don’t stop innovating. We’re investing in our proprietary Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) technology, opening up new avenues for crafting ultra-strong products from our ABM natural mineral fiber composites. And yes, we’re delving into the world of 3D printing, empowering our customers to accelerate medical manufacturing like never before.
E.E: What are the ranges of products?
M.L: Our X3 natural mineral fiber composite comes in various forms, but the star of the show is Evolvecomp™ – a natural mineral fiber pellet tailored for injection molding. With three distinct material compositions to choose from, it’s a versatile solution that suits your needs. Plus, we’re proud to offer a minimum batch size of just a few kilos, ensuring accessibility for all.
But that’s not where the story ends. Brace yourselves for the imminent arrival of our next-generation products: the game-changing X3 continuous natural mineral fiber composite and the revolutionary Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) technology. As always, we prioritize our valued customers, ensuring they’re at the forefront of our innovation journey.
E.E: At what stage is the market where you are currently active?
M.L: The market we operate in is at an exciting crossroads. As pioneers in the biomaterials industry, we’ve witnessed a steady evolution. Our natural mineral fiber technology, has thrust us into a dynamic landscape. The market is currently buzzing with anticipation, and we’re right in the midst of it, driving innovation and setting the pace for what’s next.
E.E: What can you tell us about market trends?
M.L: Biomaterials have become an increasingly captivating field, and we’re at the forefront of these trends. The market is undergoing a significant shift from metal materials with a growing focus on sustainable and bioresorbable alternatives. Biomaterial science and technology converge to reshape the future of healthcare. The demand for bioresorbable materials in medical and industrial applications is surging. We’re witnessing a wave of interest in natural mineral fiber composites, driven by their exceptional mechanical properties, pH-balanced healing environments, and improved biocompatibility. It’s a thrilling time to be part of this transformative industry.
E.E: What are the most innovative products marketed?
M.L: Our innovation hub is bustling with excitement! Our flagship product, Evolvecomp™, stands out as a game-changer with its strength and bioactivity. But that’s not all – our upcoming continuous fiber composite, boasting astonishing strength and bioactivity with the natural mineral fiber design, and Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) technology are set to revolutionize the biomaterials market. And we’re dedicated to pushing boundaries even further.
E.E: What estimations do you have for 2024?
M.L: Looking ahead to 2024, our estimations are nothing short of thrilling. We anticipate a substantial growth trajectory as the market continues to embrace the strong sustainable biomaterial solutions. With our expanding product portfolio and strong customer relationships, we foresee increased adoption of Evolvecomp™ and a warm welcome for continuous fiber technologies. Our mission is to be at the forefront of the biomaterials industry, offering groundbreaking solutions that reshape healthcare and industry. The future is promising, and we’re excited to be part of it.
