Dental fillings have come a long way from the days of manual mixing and slow chemical curing. Today, UV- and visible-light-curing resins are standard in restorative work, enabling dentists to treat patients more efficiently and achieve better long-term outcomes. This technology has transformed dental practice by combining speed, safety, and durability, delivering both clinical precision and patient comfort. How UV Curing Works in Dentistry   The principle is simple: when a light source is applied, the photoinitiator(s) activates and triggers polymerisation of the resin system. Within seconds, the liquid material hardens into a strong, durable layer that bonds securely to the tooth.   UV-curing technology in dentistry offers great advantages for both patients and dental professionals. However, there are a few nuances to keep in mind, for example controlled curing rates are essential to prevent heat build-up that could damage sensitive oral tissues. Using specially designed oligomers and monomers helps reduce shrinkage and mechanical stress during the curing process. Above all, biocompatibility is non-negotiable, as all materials must be safe for long-term contact inside the mouth. Compared to traditional chemically cured systems, UV curing offers clear advantages: Speed and Efficiency Precision Durability Aesthetics and safety For dental formulators, success depends on carefully balancing several factors. These include matching photoinitiators with light sources to achieve optimal curing depth and speed; selecting oligomers and monomers that limit shrinkage while maintaining mechanical strength. Additionally, ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory requirements, such as ISO 10993 biocompatibility standards. Innovation in dental UV curing continues to accelerate. Some key developments include: Dual-cure systems that combine light and chemical activation for reliable curing in shadowed areas Next-generation oligomers are designed to further reduce shrinkage stress and improve physical properties Bioresorbable UV adhesives for temporary applications such as implants A growing focus on sustainability and green chemistry, with formulators seeking safer and more environmentally responsible raw materials   How Anstar Can Help At Anstar, we support formulators in the dental and medical sectors with a comprehensive range of raw materials designed for light-curing systems. Our portfolio includes: Specialty acrylates and methacrylates tailored for high-performance applications Photoinitiator systems optimised for dental and medical workflows Advanced oligomers that provide strength, flexibility, and reduced shrinkage By combining technical knowledge with a reliable supply chain, we act as more than just a distributor – we are a partner for innovation. Whether you are developing next-generation dental composites, adhesives, or speciality coatings, Anstar can help you meet both performance and regulatory demands.   UV-curing has redefined dentistry, setting new standards for speed, safety, and reliability. As the industry continues to evolve, formulators face the challenge of optimising reactivity, safety, and aesthetics while meeting stringent regulatory requirements.   Anstar is here to help you navigate this journey – supplying the right raw materials and expertise to drive your next innovation in dental and medical light-curing technologies.

As Anstar continues to expand, we are delighted to welcome two new members to our team.   Dr Henry Spurr joins us as a Technical Sales Manager, bringing a wealth of sales and technical acumen. His experience will help Anstar continuously improve our service to customers. "Henry is originally from Buckinghamshire. He attended The University of Leeds where he achieved a degree in Chemistry followed by a PhD in Analytical Chemistry. He has a background in R&D, sales and consultancy across various industries, including nonwovens textiles, coatings and food technology. He joined Anstar in April 2024 as a Technical Sales Manager and is passionate about applying his technical and analytical strengths to keep driving Anstar’s success." Also joining the team is Chardae Campbell-Ryce as our Executive Assistant. She brings a dynamic combination of skills and enthusiasm, essential for enhancing our organisation and streamlining operations. "Chardae, originally from London, studied Criminology and Psychology at Leeds Beckett University. Throughout and following her degree, she gained experience in a range of customer-facing and finance roles. Joining Anstar in 2024 as the Executive assistant, she has a passion for efficiency and organisational management and is committed to supporting Anstar in becoming the next leading chemical distributor."   We are confident that our new joiners will be outstanding additions to our team and instrumental in our continued success.   If you're interested in joining our dynamic team, please visit our LinkedIn page where you can view current job openings. https://uk.linkedin.com/company/anstar-limited

Historically, UV-curable formulations have relied on petrochemical-derived components to produce monomers, oligomers, and photoinitiators. While these non-renewable chemicals have played a key role in the industry for many years, there is a rapid shift towards sustainability. This transition is driving innovation for biobased alternatives and energy-efficient curing methods.   New for 2025, Anstar's portfolio includes biobased UV-curing raw materials offering up to 73% bio-content with our product ES-1101  Modified Soybean Acrylate. Other new technology includes biobased polyurethane acrylates and polyether urethane speciality oligomers offering up to 6 functionality and low viscosities. Anstar also offers biobased BPA-free alternatives to BPA epoxy acrylate.   The key areas of research explored by Anstar and collaborations with academic and industry partners include:   Plant-Derived Oils:  Acrylates from soybean and castor oil now replace conventional monomers in resin formulations. Lignin-Derived:  Lignin-based monomers and oligomers enhance biodegradability and support environmental efforts. Carbohydrate-Based Oligomers:  Glucose and cellulose-based oligomers offer a renewable foundation for UV-curable resins.   Although UV technology already offers a more sustainable option, incorporating biobased materials further reduces reliance on petrochemicals, improving the environmental profile of cured products. These areas of research have helped Anstar develop many new products for 2025 and more will be added in the near future. Our bio-sourced acrylates are leading the way for sustainability in the market.   The key areas driving innovation in biobased ingredients in UV-curing technology include:   Market Demand:  Consumers and businesses are increasingly demanding products with a lower environmental impact, pushing manufacturers to adopt greener technologies. Environmental Regulations:  Stricter European policies are limiting the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants, leading industries to seek eco-friendly alternatives. Renewable Innovation:  The development of biobased materials, derived from new renewable sources such as plant oils and lignin, provides sustainable substitutes for traditional petrochemical ingredients, with biobased products approaching parity on price and performance.   Anstar is committed to the future of biobased UV-curing and is continually developing next-generation ingredients for coatings, adhesives, and inks. The company is also pioneering advancements in biobased hyperbranched oligomers, ensuring high performance with reduced environmental impact. Through collaborations with academic and industry partners, Anstar is accelerating the commercialisation of these solutions, helping product formulators transition to more sustainable UV-curing technologies.   Future-proof your business with cutting-edge, sustainable, bio-based UV-curable solutions. For more information on our bio-based products contact us via info@anstar.com Farmers on a combine harvester, harvesting soybean crop, which produces a waste stream to generate bio-based chemicals.