Arfinio®

Arfinio® is a solid-surface technology developed by Covestro and Arcesso Dynamics, based on reaction injection moulding (RIM). The technology enables the production of seamless surfaces without visible joints or structural weak points, supporting applications that involve complex or integrated geometries. Owing to the scalability of the process, three-dimensional and organic forms can be manufactured in series.

Where conventional RIM materials are typically produced using aromatic polyurethanes — which are sensitive to light-induced discolouration and therefore require coating — Arfinio® uses an aliphatic chemistry. This makes it possible to combine the advantages of solid-surface materials and injection moulding, including design flexibility, reparability and industrial scalability. The material is produced without requiring sheets as an intermediate step.

The resulting surfaces are seamless and therefore suitable for applications with integrated components, such as shower trays or washbasins. Arfinio® is available in a range of colours and gloss levels and has a relatively low weight; even the heaviest version is approximately 40% lighter than conventional solid-surface materials. Its thermal characteristics also provide insulating properties.

Applications include product housings, interior cladding, façade elements, and components incorporating backlighting or electronic integration. For use in wet environments, such as bathrooms, properties such as slip resistance, hygiene and cleanability are particularly relevant.

The RIM process can eliminate the need for production steps such as thermoforming, CNC machining and bonding, as the desired shape is formed in a single moulding step.

Key properties and functional capabilities:

• Warm and pleasant tactile feel
• Optional light-transmitting or illuminated surfaces
• Possibility of integrating electronic functions such as wireless charging
• Built-in mounting or connection features
• Relatively low weight (up to approx. 40% lighter than conventional solid-surface materials)
• Colour and gloss flexibility for small- and large-scale production
• High chemical and mechanical resistance

The production process can incorporate partially bio-based raw materials. High impact resistance and reparability contribute to a long service life, after which the material can be mechanically recycled into new Arfinio® products.