Advancing Climate Change Action with Flexible Electronic Circuit Innovations: A GlobalData Analysis
GlobalData acknowledges that advancements in flexible electronic circuits are supporting efforts to address climate change. The use of extremely thin materials with electronic properties is enabling the development of sustainable and affordable flexible electronics. This progress, coupled with a rise in patent applications and investments, is driving the incorporation of flexible electronic circuits into renewable energy solutions. This integration is enhancing the flexibility and durability of energy systems in the battle against climate change.
A team of scientists at UC Irvine has created a new technique for making extremely thin bismuth crystals that involves a method similar to using a tortilla press. These crystals have unique quantum properties and could greatly improve the production of inexpensive, flexible electronics and quantum devices, ultimately making flexible electronics more accessible in daily life.
GlobalData's tool for monitoring technology advancements, called "Technology Foresights," has shown a steady rise in the number of patents related to flexible electronic circuits from 2015 to 2023, with a total of 2,882 patents during this period. The inclusion of 13 new companies in 2022 and 11 in 2023 in the patent landscape indicates a growing focus on innovation, with patents covering key topics like climate change, emissions reduction, and renewable energy.
According to Rahul Kumar Singh, a Senior Analyst at GlobalData specializing in Disruptive Tech, flexible circuits are allowing for new capabilities and features in electronic devices by adapting to unique shapes and integrating with various components. The increase in patents related to climate change and emissions reduction shows how these circuits are being used to develop more environmentally friendly technologies. Additionally, advancements in printed circuit manufacturing, which make up over 40% of flexible electronic circuit patents, are leading to more efficient production methods that cut down on waste and energy usage.
A review of GlobalData's Disruptor Intelligence Center shows the latest advancements, important collaborations, and financial support that are contributing to the sustainable production of flexible electronic circuits. One example is ENNOVI, a US company, which in April 2024, unveiled a sustainable technique for manufacturing flexible circuits used in EV battery cell contact systems, reflecting the industry's emphasis on sustainability.
In February 2024, Smartkem, a company based in the UK, partnered with FlexiIC to simplify the process of designing and manufacturing flexible circuits. By utilizing open-source EDA tools, they aimed to improve the speed and affordability of producing new applications in sensors and IoT technology.
During the same month, NextFlex, a company based in the United States, received $6.49 million in funding for seven projects as part of Project Call 8.0. These projects aim to promote sustainability in the manufacturing of flexible hybrid electronics.
In December 2023, the UK company Pragmatic Semiconductor secured $231 million in Series D funding to grow their production of flexible integrated circuits for smart packaging and wearables. This investment highlights the increasing interest in flexible electronic circuitry.
Singh summarizes that although there have been advancements in flexible electronic circuits, there are still challenges related to scalability. It is important to be able to mass produce these circuits without sacrificing quality or driving up costs. Additionally, integrating flexible circuits into current manufacturing processes and ensuring their durability in different situations is essential. Despite these challenges, the increasing number of patents and investments in flexible electronics indicate a promising future for this technology.
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