#3DStartup: 3D Architech 3D Prints Micro-Scale Gel-Based Metal Parts

3D printing continues to be a key tool for many industries, enabling the creation of parts with complex geometries and advanced materials. In the case of metals, advances in this technology have opened up new possibilities in a multitude of sectors, including those where precision and material optimization are key. One of the most recent developments in this area is the use of innovative techniques that improve the efficiency and scalability of metal additive manufacturing. This is where 3D Architech, a startup which has developed a gel-based metal 3D printing technique, comes in. The company working to redefine the way metal components are designed and produced by additive manufacturing with its process. We spoke with its founder to learn more about its developments, the latest advances and the impact of its technology on the industry.

3DN: Could you introduce yourself and your connection with 3D printing?

My name is Kai Narita, and I am the founder and CEO of 3D Architech. My journey with 3D printing began during my Ph.D. studies at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), where I developed a strong interest in micro-scale additive manufacturing and its application in the energy sector. My research primarily focused on utilizing 3D printing to create architected materials, particularly for energy storage devices like lithium-ion batteries. This work highlighted the transformative potential of precise microstructural control in optimizing material and device performance.

Kai Narita, founder and CEO of 3D Architech (left) and some parts from the company (right)

3DN: What is 3D Architech and how did the idea of creating the company come about?

3D Architech, founded in 2022 and based in both Japan and the United States, is dedicated to revolutionizing manufacturing through our proprietary gel-based 3D printing technology. The concept for the company emerged from my doctoral research at Caltech, where I developed advanced 3D printing techniques for engineering architected materials at the micro-scale. Recognizing the disruptive potential of these innovations in fields like cooling, energy, and manufacturing, I established 3D Architech to commercialize these technologies and transform how metal components are designed and produced.