Demcon Collaborates to Advance Silicon Nitride Photonic Chips
Enschede, Wednesday, 22 January 2025.
Demcon partners with TNO and the University of Twente to develop innovative, energy-efficient silicon nitride photonic chips for improved diagnostics and vehicle safety, enhancing the Dutch photonics industry.
Understanding Photonic Innovation
This collaboration focuses on photonic chip technology, specifically advancing low-energy modulation in silicon nitride (SiN) photonic chips [1][3]. Photonic chips represent a significant leap forward in computing and sensing technology, using light instead of electricity to process and transmit data [1]. The development is currently in its early stages but is considered a key enabling technology by the Dutch government [1][4], with the research being partially funded through the National Growth Fund project PhotonDelta [1].
Strategic Partnership Structure
The collaboration is formalized under the Photonic Integration Technology Center (PITC) with a three-year commitment [1][5]. Demcon’s involvement comes through its subsidiary, Demcon TSST, which specializes in designing and producing customized thin-film deposition equipment [1]. The research and development efforts will utilize facilities at the University of Twente’s MESA+ Institute [1], located in Enschede [2].
Applications and Benefits
This innovative technology promises multiple advantages across various sectors. In the context of the ongoing AI revolution, these chips can manage the surge in data processing needs with greater energy efficiency [1][5]. The technology enables the development of more affordable, faster, and energy-efficient devices [1]. Specific applications include enhanced early disease diagnostics, improved safety systems for autonomous vehicles, and more efficient data communication infrastructure [1][3].
Industry Impact and Future Prospects
The collaboration represents a significant step forward for the Dutch high-tech industry [1]. According to Ton van Mol, managing director at TNO Flexible and Freeform Products, this project will strengthen the Netherlands’ position in sustainable technology development [1][3]. Professor Guus Rijnders from the MESA+ Institute emphasizes that this partnership will accelerate the transformation of scientific discoveries into market-ready products [1], while Emiel Rutgers, managing director at Demcon TSST, highlights how their combined expertise will advance energy-efficient solutions across multiple industries [1][4].