Pragmatic Semiconductor, the largest semiconductor manufacturer in the UK, is making waves in the chip industry with its innovative approach to chip manufacturing. Unlike traditional silicon-based chips, Pragmatic is producing flexible chips that can actually bend. These chips are being made at their state-of-the-art plant in Durham, which was once a ceramic pipe factory.
The production line at the Durham facility is equipped with advanced machinery and features a carefully controlled environment to prevent contamination during the manufacturing process. Pragmatic Semiconductor has already built one production line, and with the funding of £182m from private investors, the UK Infrastructure Bank, and British Patient Capital, they plan to build three more. The ultimate goal is to have a total of eight production lines in the former pipe factory.
While most semiconductors are made using silicon, Pragmatic’s approach involves building chips on a flexible thin film. Apart from being cheaper and faster to manufacture than traditional silicon chips, these flexible chips offer a range of applications. They can be used in wearable technology, clothing authentication, and even in parcel labels to track and trace items.
David Moore, the CEO of Pragmatic Semiconductor, highlights the need for multiple types of semiconductors to address different challenges in the chip sector. He acknowledges that while the flexible chip offers cost-effective and scalable solutions, it is not a complete substitute for advanced silicon-based chips used in phones, computers, and other high-tech devices.
The chip industry has been facing challenges in recent years, including disruptions to supply chains during the pandemic and geopolitical tensions in Asia, where 90% of the world’s most advanced chips are produced. In response, governments around the world are investing heavily in domestic chip industries to reduce dependency on a few key suppliers. The US, EU, and UK have all committed significant funding to boost chip production within their borders.
However, analysts caution against wasteful duplication in building new chip plants. While the efforts to strengthen domestic chip industries are commendable, there is a risk of duplicating existing facilities in Asia. Therefore, they emphasize the need for diversification in chip manufacturing techniques and applications to meet the growing demand for connected devices.
As Pragmatic Semiconductor continues its groundbreaking work in Durham, the future of chip manufacturing looks promising. The development of flexible chips opens up new possibilities for various industries, and with continued innovation and investment, the chip sector is poised for significant growth and advancement.
The source of the article is from the blog radardovalemg.com