One of the biggest misconceptions in the world of additive manufacturing is the role of binders, mistakenly dismissed as nothing more than glue holding parts together. They are frequently seen as simple, passive ingredients whose only job is to hold powder in place until the sintering stage begins. In reality, this view overlooks just how fundamental binder chemistry is to the success of the entire process.
At Atomik AM, we approach binders very differently. We see them not as functional fillers or temporary supports, but as complex, purpose-built materials that influence nearly every aspect of part quality and process reliability. From the strength of green parts and the predictability of print outcomes to the sustainability of production and the integrity of final components, the binder plays a critical role in determining whether a manufacturer can scale successfully or continue to face inefficiencies.
The Chemistry That Matters
Each binder we develop is the result of intentional, chemistry-led design that draws on a deep understanding of how materials behave in additive manufacturing environments. Rather than treating the binder as a secondary consideration, we view it as an integral part of the material system that must be precisely tuned to optimise performance, improve part outcomes, and reduce risk at every stage.
This approach means considering not only the binder’s compatibility with specific machines or feedstocks, but also how its characteristics such as viscosity, droplet formation, carbon content, and decomposition profile interact with the wider process. By adjusting these properties, we help manufacturers produce parts that are more consistent, scalable, and better suited to automation and repeatable production. This becomes especially important for teams moving beyond prototyping into full-scale manufacturing, where even minor inconsistencies can cause delays, rework, or increased scrap.
More Than Holding Things Together
When referring to a binder as being fit for purpose, we mean much more than its ability to hold a shape during printing. A well-formulated binder plays an active role in improving both process efficiency and final part performance, beginning with the green part. This unsintered stage is critical as the part must be strong enough to survive handling, de-powdering and movement between processing steps without damage.
Our binders are engineered to deliver high green strength, giving printed components the durability they need to move through post-processing without cracking or breaking. However, their role does not end there as we also focus on how the binder behaves during sintering. This includes how cleanly it decomposes, whether it leaves behind any residue and how it influences the final density, shrinkage and mechanical properties of the part. These chemical behaviours are often overlooked, yet they play a crucial role in achieving consistent and scalable production outcomes.
Sustainability is another key focus at Atomik AM. Our binder formulations are designed to support cleaner burn-out, lower emissions, and enable more efficient use of raw materials. By integrating sustainability into the core of our chemistry, we help manufacturers adopt production methods that deliver high performance while reducing environmental impact. This is becoming increasingly important as the industry continues to shift toward solutions that meet both commercial demands and long-term environmental responsibilities.
It’s Never Just Glue
At Atomik AM, we do not supply glue. We design binder systems that form the foundation of reliable, scalable additive manufacturing. Our binders are developed with purpose, rooted in chemistry, and tailored to meet the real-world demands of production environments. They are not generic fixes or short-term solutions but instead engineered materials that address specific challenges and unlock better performance across every stage of the process.
If your current binder is not delivering the strength, consistency, or process efficiency you need, it may be time to take a closer look at what the chemistry is actually doing for your workflow. A well-formulated binder does more than hold a part together. It supports automation, improves sustainability, enhances part quality, and enables greater scalability.
It is time to rethink what you expect from a binder. Whether you are preparing for large-scale production, aiming to reduce material loss, or looking to strengthen green parts and improve process control, we are here to help.
Contact Atomik AM to explore binder systems that go beyond the basics. Discover what becomes possible when you treat the binder as a driver of performance, not just a supporting material.
