Imec Collaborates with Pragmatic Semiconductor to Revolutionize Semiconductor Innovation in Europe

by | Jul 5, 2023

In a groundbreaking alliance that is poised to reshape the semiconductor industry, Imec and Pragmatic Semiconductor have joined forces with the EUROPRACTICE consortium to revolutionize the realm of electronic circuits and systems. Backed by the esteemed European Commission, this partnership aims to democratize access to cutting-edge technologies and provide invaluable support to the innovation endeavors of European industry and academia.

Imec, a renowned research and innovation center specializing in nanoelectronics and digital technologies, brings to the table an impressive network of experts and a wealth of experience. With over 5,500 employees and some of the brightest minds in the field, Imec has long been at the forefront of semiconductor advancements. Their collaborations with industry leaders across various sectors have paved the way for groundbreaking breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, beyond 5G communications, and sensing technologies.

Adding a unique twist to the partnership is Pragmatic Semiconductor, based in Cambridge, UK. Their game-changing thin-film transistor (TFT) technology, combined with conventional semiconductor processing equipment, enables the production of flexible integrated circuits (FlexICs) in record time. This means that customers can now explore innovative applications that were previously deemed impossible with traditional silicon chips.

Dr. Francesca Bottacchi, the Account Manager of the Foundry at Pragmatic, emphasizes the advantages of their FlexIC technology. By significantly reducing product development time and allowing for early end-user testing, Pragmatic’s technology accelerates time to market for groundbreaking solutions. This perfectly aligns with EUROPRACTICE’s mission to support the innovation endeavors of European academia and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

For nearly three decades, the EUROPRACTICE consortium has been a driving force in providing affordable access to prototyping and volume production services. Their Multi-Project Wafer (MPW) services have supported countless academic institutions and SMEs, offering design tools, training, and now, the groundbreaking FlexIC fabrication from Pragmatic Semiconductor. This integration of Pragmatic’s FlexIC technology into EUROPRACTICE’s portfolio opens up a world of new possibilities for European industry and academia.

The collaboration between Imec and Pragmatic Semiconductor within the EUROPRACTICE consortium represents a significant leap forward in semiconductor innovation. With Imec’s extensive network and expertise combined with Pragmatic’s revolutionary FlexIC technology, new frontiers in electronic circuit development are set to be unlocked.

But what does this mean for industries and everyday life? The possibilities are truly limitless with Pragmatic’s FlexIC technology. Imagine flexible integrated circuits that can be bent and twisted to fit into any shape or form. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities for industries such as health and life sciences, mobility, industry 4.0, agrofood, smart cities, sustainable energy, and education.

The support of the European Commission has been instrumental in the success of EUROPRACTICE, solidifying its position as a leading platform for semiconductor innovation. By fostering collaboration between industry and academia, EUROPRACTICE continues to push the boundaries of electronic circuit and system development.

In summary, the collaboration between Imec and Pragmatic Semiconductor within the EUROPRACTICE consortium marks a remarkable milestone in semiconductor innovation. With their cutting-edge technologies and unwavering commitment to supporting European industry and academia, this partnership is poised to revolutionize the development of electronic circuits and systems. Through their collaborative efforts, Imec and Pragmatic Semiconductor are propelling the industry forward and paving the way for a future of enhanced innovation and technological advancements. Get ready for a whole new era of flexible integrated circuits that will shape the world as we know it.