Samsung C&T said on the 9th that it unveiled "Next Material," a next-generation finishing material technology using Digital Vision. Digital Vision is a technology based on advanced digital printing that reproduces the visual and tactile characteristics of natural materials such as solid wood and marble at a level identical to the real thing.
Samsung C&T worked with Germany's Schattdecor, a global leader in surface materials technology, to develop a special synchronized design technology that improves the texture and durability of existing digital printing products and has completed a patent application. Founded in Germany in 1985, Schattdecor is the No. 1 global surface materials company that currently performs printing, impregnation, and finishing across more than 10 bases in Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
Next Material, developed through the two companies' collaboration, combines the strengths of practical, utility-focused engineered wood flooring and luxurious solid wood flooring. While engineered wood flooring, produced via a roll printing method with a resolution of around 300 dpi, had design limitations such as up to four colors and a pattern repeating every 1.3 meters, Next Material using Digital Vision boosts resolution to around 1,200 dpi—more than four times higher—and has no limits on color, size, or pattern in design.
It also creates the unique sensibility of solid wood and an upscale spatial mood by directly analyzing natural wood to reproduce the same colors and patterns as solid wood. In addition, by reducing the use of natural materials and dependence on imports, it enables high-quality flooring at reasonable prices. With excellent durability and stain resistance, it minimizes discoloration even after long-term use, securing real-world performance as well, and aligns with the customization and long-life dwelling concept pursued by Raemian's future dwelling "Next Home." This technology will be applied for the first time to flooring and wall finishes at "Raemian Ellabine (Banghwa District 6 reconstruction)."
Byeon Dong-gyu, head of the dwelling technology innovation team at Samsung C&T, said, "The Next Material finish is not just a new material but a platform technology that delivers the value customers want," adding, "We will continue to set new standards for apartment finishing material technology."