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Smartkem Joins Forces with FlexiIC to Develop Advanced CMOS for Smart Sensors

In a significant leap forward for the electronics industry, Smartkem (NASDAQ: SMTK), a pioneering firm in organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs), has announced a multi-year agreement with FlexiIC, a leader in the design of flexible integrated circuits. This collaboration aims to spearhead the development of a new generation of complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology specifically tailored for smart sensors. This innovative project continues a joint effort that spells exciting possibilities for the evolution of sensing technology.

The initiative focuses on creating custom circuits through Smartkem's advanced OTFT technology, incorporating n-type oxide thin-film transistors (TFTs). This approach promises to deliver low-power sensors with the capability to utilize mixed signal and digital intellectual properties (IPs), including RISC-V cores, which rely on an open-source instruction set architecture. Moreover, the integration of machine learning (ML) capabilities further enhances these sensors, enabling them to process signals more efficiently and intelligently.

Smartkem's Chairman and CEO, Ian Jenks, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, "This project with FlexiIC enhances our technological reach into large-area electronics that require minimal power consumption, which is integral for the burgeoning Internet of Things (IoT) market, projected to soar to about $4,062.34 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.3% starting from 2024. The application of CMOS architecture is especially beneficial as it not only consumes less power but also generates less heat and has better noise margins, crucial attributes for the success of next-generation biosensors, optical sensors, and more."

Dr. Eloi Ramon, co-CEO of FlexiIC, emphasized the advantages of their sensor solutions, highlighting the affordability, adaptability, and eco-friendliness they offer. He remarked, "Our platform effectively enhances signal acquisition while minimizing noise interference. This partnership to develop custom circuits means we can deliver innovative systems in foil that are both low-power and capable of rapid prototyping. This is vital for the success of system-in-foil devices that can meet various market demands."

The anticipated two-year project is contingent on receiving grant funding approval from the Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnológico Industrial (CDTI), a Spanish public entity dedicated to fostering technological innovation. With such backing, the companies expect to bring their advanced sensor technologies to fruition.

About Smartkem

Smartkem is at the forefront of disrupting the electronics sector with its innovative organic thin-film transistor technology. Their patented TRUFLEX® liquid semiconductor polymers facilitate the development of transistors applicable in diverse display technologies, including the next generation of microLED displays. Smartkem’s organic inks allow for low-temperature printing methods, making them compatible with existing manufacturing processes, thus offering cost-effective displays that outperform current technologies.

With its research and development headquarters in Manchester, UK, Smartkem not only specializes in advanced materials but also offers prototyping services through the Centre for Process Innovation in Sedgefield, UK. With a robust intellectual property portfolio that features 125 patents across 19 families and numerous trade secrets, Smartkem is poised to be an influential player in the future landscape of flexible electronics.

About FlexiIC

FlexiIC was established by experts in organic electronics and chip design from the Institute of Microelectronics of Barcelona (IMB-CNM-CSIC). FlexiIC is committed to innovating in system-on-chip (SoC) designs for edge computing and smart systems, particularly within the IoT sphere. Their focus on disposable electronics for life sensing underscores their goal of creating and merging flexible, organic integrated circuits with sustainable materials. By embedding advanced computing capabilities, FlexiIC aims to provide effective monitoring systems for the medical, packaging, and environmental sectors.

This collaboration between Smartkem and FlexiIC not only embodies a promising future for low-power electronics but also illustrates the immense potential of integrating innovative technologies to create more efficient and sustainable solutions in various domains. As the market for smart sensors grows, both companies are strategically positioned to lead the charge toward a smarter and more environmentally conscious future in electronics.