The company is specialising in the custom design, development and production of innovative high performance ultra-lightweight flexible laminates and fabrics — most of them based on Dyneema technology.

The acquisition of Cubic Tech reinforces the position of Dyneema as one of the leading brands of ultra high performance materials and broadens DSM Dyneema’s product portfolio, providing it with downstream knowledge complementary to its own in the processing of UHMwPE fibre, tape and production of uni-directional (UD) fabrics.

Cubic Tech’s technology

Cubic Tech’s technology has been developed and refined over two decades of research and development, originating with the development of racing sails used in the America’s Cup in 1992.

The company is focused on high-end solutions in applications as diverse as racing yacht sails, equipment and apparel for sportswear, outdoor and future soldier programmes, as well as emergency medical equipment.

“Cubic Tech’s philosophy is very akin to our own, with a fundamental belief in extremely lightweight and strong constructions,” Jeff Turner, VP Strategy of DSM Dyneema, added. “It is therefore a natural extension of the Dyneema value proposition. Cubic Tech has some exciting technology, and with the addition of DSM Dyneema’s application development, operational excellence and marketing competences we expect to accelerate these developments into new areas for DSM Dyneema.”

Important acquisition

In 1997, Cuben Fiber Corporation started to produce advanced versions of the flexible composite sail fabric that won the Americas Cup. Due to the demand for high tech materials in non-sailing applications, a second company, Cubic Tech Corporation was founded in 2003, to develop all non-sailing applications of Cuben Fiber laminates.

In 2007, Cuben Fiber Corporation was acquired by North Marine Group and became North Cuben Fiber, LLC. Cubic Tech Corporation continues to develop new materials for specialized applications.

The acquisition of Cubic Tech accelerates DSM Dyneema’s entry into the performance apparel markets and will add important new revenue streams and developments in existing markets, as well as creating access to several new applications, according to DSM Dyneema. Cubic Tech will be fully integrated into DSM Dyneema and all employees of Cubic Tech are invited to stay on after the acquisition.

Leader in sustainable solutions

Adding Cubic Tech to its portfolio also strengthens DSM Dyneema’s commitment to be a leader in offering sustainable solutions, enabling the replacement of traditional materials with new and innovative products that are lighter, stronger, more durable, and which have reduced environmental impact, the company reports.

“The acquisition of Cubic Tech is an important part of our strategy to create, and bring to market, products and services that improve the quality of life while enabling our customers to operate their businesses more successfully,” explained Gerard de Reuver, President of DSM Dyneema.

“We have worked closely with Cubic Tech as a valued customer for many years, so we know that the two companies have a shared passion for innovation. I believe Cubic Tech’s way of working, its solutions-oriented and tailored approach to developing products for its customers, is in the spirit of the DSM Dyneema philosophy With you when it matters.”

www.dsm.com