Esteemed stakeholders, partners, and colleagues,
Looking back on the year 2023, it's evident that there have been significant advancements and innovative breakthroughs in printed and organic electronics, both globally and in the Östergötland region of Sweden. We're thrilled to share with you some of the exciting developments and achievements of the year through this report. Enjoy!
Executive Summary
The 2023 annual report for Printed Organic Electronics (PE) at Norrköping Science Park highlights a year of significant advancements and groundbreaking innovations in Sweden and globally.Â
The global market for printed electronics is projected to reach USD 75.2 billion by 2033, driven by technological advancements, rising demand for IoT devices, and a focus on environmental sustainability. Key market drivers include the global drive for sustainability, material innovations, and the relocation of production to Europe. The report covers developments in printing technologies, and commercial breakthroughs in various sectors, and focuses on reducing e-waste.
Global Development in Printed Electronics
The 2023 Global Printed Electronics Market report reveals that the market is projected to reach USD 75.2 billion by 2033, with a steady CAGR of 19.1% from 2024 to 2033, and an estimated USD 15.6 billion in 2024. This growth is driven by technological advancements, particularly in flexible and organic materials, the rising demand for IoT devices, environmental sustainability, and cost-efficiency.Â
It's important to note that these components form just a part of the broader printed electronics ecosystem. When considering the overall market value, which includes not only inks and substrates but also the finished electronic products, systems, and services that utilize these basic materials, the industry value is significantly higher.
Key Market Drivers & Trends
Global Drive for Sustainability:Â Accelerated the development of environmentally friendly electronic solutions.
Sourcing Challenges: Concerns over scarce and toxic raw materials, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, spurred material innovation and supply chain changes.
Relocation to Europe: A desire to move production to Europe for supply chain security and regional economic growth. For instance, covered by the EU Chips Act
Material Innovations: Addressing scarcity and toxicity issues while enhancing performance. Using more biobased materials.
Evolution of Printing Technologies: Like inkjet and flexographic printing, enabling more efficient production.
Commercial Breakthroughs: Wearable technology, automotive sector advancements, EV Battery Heaters, Antennas, OLED displays' widespread adoption, healthcare applications, and smart packaging.
Focus on E-Waste Reduction: Obtaining more sustainable, compostable and recyclable electronic products.
New Product Form Factors: Development of products with flexibility and stretchability.
As mentioned above, In 2023, the printed electronics sector saw considerable growth, influenced by a confluence of factors and challenges. The global drive for sustainability and eco-friendliness accelerated the development of greener electronic solutions. Concerns over the sourcing of scarce and toxic raw materials, compounded by geopolitical tensions, acted as a catalyst for innovation in material usage and supply chain reconfiguration. There was a pronounced desire to relocate production to Europe, motivated by supply chain security and regional economic development.
Technological advancements played a crucial role. The industry made significant strides in developing flexible, stretchable, and bendable electronics, opening doors to innovative product designs and applications, particularly in wearable technology. Innovations in materials were crucial, not just for enhancing performance but also for addressing issues of scarcity and toxicity. Printing technologies like inkjet and flexographic printing evolved, enabling more efficient and versatile production processes.
PFAS, a group of highly persistent chemicals, has become a major environmental and health concern. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has proposed restrictions on around 10,000 PFAS substances to reduce environmental emissions and make products and processes safer. Printed organic electronics and bio-based materials are emerging as potential solutions to this challenge. These technologies offer environmentally friendly alternatives with reduced reliance on harmful chemicals. The advancement in printed electronics and bio-based materials could play a crucial role in developing safer, sustainable products and processes, aligning with efforts to minimize PFAS usage and impact. Here is a seminar by Digital Cellulose Center discussing the impact of the upcoming PFAS directive on the electronics industry.
Commercially, the year witnessed several breakthroughs. Wearable technology, especially health monitoring devices, saw significant commercial success. The automotive sector embraced printed electronics in lighting and displays. The widespread adoption of OLED displays in consumer electronics exemplified the industry's commercial prowess. In healthcare, printed electronics made inroads into real-time monitoring devices. Smart packaging technology began transforming the retail and packaging industries, integrating sensors and interactive elements.
Furthermore, there was a growing emphasis on reducing e-waste, aiming at obtaining more sustainable and recyclable electronic products. This focus also dovetailed with the industry's efforts to create products with new form factors like flexibility and stretchability, pushing the boundaries of traditional electronics design.
The desire to relocate production to Europe, particularly in the electronics and semiconductor industry, is significantly influenced by the EU Chips Act. This strategic move aims to enhance supply chain security and stimulate regional economic growth. The EU Chips Act responds to global supply chain vulnerabilities exposed by recent disruptions, intending to make Europe more self-reliant and competitive in the critical semiconductor sector. By localising production, the EU seeks not only to secure its supply chains against future disruptions but also to boost its technological sovereignty and create jobs, thereby fueling regional economic development.
Overall, 2023 was a landmark year for printed electronics, characterised by multifaceted drivers, impressive technical advancements, and significant commercial successes. The industry’s trajectory points to continued growth and innovation, underpinned by sustainability, supply chain resilience, and the creation of versatile, eco-friendly products.
An International Outlook - What is going on outside the Nordics?
The printed electronics sector is experiencing substantial growth, driven by the expertise and advancements of key players worldwide. This report examines the contributions of several prominent companies in this field, each of which plays a role in advancing technology and expanding the applications of printed electronics.
Brewer Science is recognized for developing essential materials that serve as the foundation for various electronic components. Their innovations in sensors and semiconductors are crucial for the miniaturization and performance enhancement of devices.
E Ink Holdings Inc. has been instrumental in transforming the way information is displayed, with their e-paper technology offering a low-power, comfortable reading experience that mimics traditional paper. Their displays are used in a variety of applications, from e-readers to dynamic signage.
Epicore Biosystems is advancing the integration of printed electronics with biotechnology through their microfluidic sensors, enabling non-invasive health monitoring and expanding the capabilities of wearable technology.
FlexEnable's developments in organic electronics are leading to more adaptable and conformable electronic devices, including wearable sensors and flexible displays, which are opening up new possibilities for how electronics are used and worn.
Integrated Deposition Solutions contributes to the production process by providing the NanoJet Aerosol Print Technology essential for creating high-quality printed electronics. Their technology ensures uniformity and efficiency in the manufacturing of electronic components.
Nano Dimension is pioneering the convergence of 3D printing and electronics with their additive manufacturing solutions, enabling rapid prototyping and production of complex electronic circuits.
Neotech AMT is pushing the boundaries of 3D printed electronics, offering integrated systems that facilitate the creation of electronic devices with unprecedented structural complexities.
NovaCentrix's photonic curing technologies are revolutionizing printed electronics' production speed and quality, enhancing their performance and enabling faster time-to-market for innovations.
Schreiner MediPharm is combining printed electronics with pharmaceutical applications, embedding smart functionalities into medical devices to improve patient care and medication adherence.
Lastly, Wiliot is scaling down the size of intelligent systems with their ambient-energy-powered computers, which are small enough to integrate into a wide array of products, leading to a future where everyday objects have smart capabilities.
Collectively, these companies are not merely manufacturing components; they are driving the evolution of printed electronics, enabling new applications and paving the way for future innovations that will integrate seamlessly into daily life.
HOPE and GIVE: Driving Innovation and Growth in Printed ElectronicsÂ
HOPE and GIVE are two key projects within Norrköping Science Park, each aiming to stimulate and accelerate growth in printed and organic electronics in slightly different ways:
The HOPE project focuses on creating a dynamic arena for growth, innovation, and collaboration, especially targeted at young and growing companies. Its purpose is to provide a platform where these companies can develop and collaborate. HOPE is co-financed by Tillväxtverket and the real estate company Slättö.
The GIVE project aims to create new markets and spread knowledge in the field of organic and bio-based electronics, batteries, and solar cells. Its overarching goal is to contribute to a climate-neutral and fossil-free society. This includes forming new collaborations and networks among various actors, which is crucial for promoting the industry's growth and innovation. GIVE is co-financed by the Swedish Energy Agency within the framework of the Bio+ programme.
HOPE InaugurationThe inauguration of HOPE, the new meeting arena at Norrköping Science Park, marks a significant advancement in the field of printed and organic electronics. This collaboration between Linköping University, Norrköping Science Park, RISE, Slättö, and Fastpartner, located on Källvindsgatan 5 in Norrköping's industrial landscape, serves as a hub for innovation and collaboration.
HOPE is designed as a versatile space for light production, encompassing offices, shared corporate offices, a showroom, an innovation lab, conference rooms, a lecture hall, a media room, and more. It offers a physical space for innovation and fosters an ecosystem conducive to the growth and development of companies in the sector. The focus is on supporting the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises within the realm of printed electronics in Eastern Central Sweden.
HOPE is a natural extension of the Printed Electronics Arena, a research-close arena within Norrköping Science Park, dedicated to the development of manufacturing processes, prototypes, pre-series, and initial customer deliveries. The initial phase of HOPE is co-financed by Tillväxtverket through the EU's regional funds, supplemented by contributions from Linköping University, Norrköping Science Park, and Region Östergötland​​​​. There is also a close partnership with Innovative Materials Arena (IMA) in Linköping.Â
HOPE represents a critical step in consolidating Norrköping's position as a leader in research and development in printed electronics, emphasizing the city's and the region's commitment to fostering high-tech, innovative businesses.
Almedalsveckan 2023
During Almedalsveckan 2023, Norrköping Science Park and the GIVE project, in collaboration with industry leaders and academic experts, hosted two notable and popular seminars that highlighted the importance of innovation and technology.
About Batteries and Solar Power (Link): This seminar,, focused on developments in battery and solar energy technology. A new emerging technology in the form of organic redox flow batteries was presented. The expert panel discussed future energy solutions and Sweden's opportunities in the energy transition, with a special emphasis on sustainable development and innovation.
Storytelling in Innovation Work (Link): In this interactive workshop, the importance of storytelling in the innovation process was highlighted. A storytelling expert presented how effective narratives can accelerate the development and communication of new ideas. The participants got a chance to practice storytelling and brought with them some new skills to use in their innovation work.
These sessions, as part of the Almedalsveckan program, reflected the commitment of Norrköping Science Park and the GIVE project to promoting discussions around innovation and sustainable technology development.
The GIVE project emphasizes a cross-actor and cross-industry approach to advance the market for bio-based and organic technologies essential for the energy transition. A key element of this strategy is hosting events that unite stakeholders from various sectors, such as the real estate and energy technology industries.
One notable example is the 'New Green Technology: Business Opportunities for the Construction and Installation Industry' event (Link). This event brought together professionals and innovators to discuss the latest in green technology, fostering knowledge-sharing and collaborative opportunities.
Through such initiatives, GIVE aims to stimulate innovation and market growth in sustainable technology, contributing to the broader goal of energy-efficient and eco-friendly development. This holistic and inclusive approach ensures that the transition towards more sustainable solutions is effective and far-reaching.
GIVE Innovation: Showcasing Innovations and the Minds Behind Them. The co-created platform offers valuable insights and practical tips for integrating bio-based and renewable materials into smart buildings, automotive technology, and other sectors utilising electronics, batteries and solar cells.Â
GIVE Innovation emphasizes the importance of sharing success stories and breakthroughs in renewable and bio-based materials, nurturing a collaborative environment within the innovation network.Â
Additionally, it features portraits and narratives of scientists dedicated to developing new green technologies in electronics, energy storage, and solar cells. These stories delve into the scientists' motivations for pursuing science and their sources of inspiration. By connecting diverse interests ranging from faith and nature to high-tech and digital medicine, GIVE Innovation highlights the human aspect of scientific progress.
GIVE Innovationsfikor: This is a series of interactive sessions designed to bring together problem owners and innovators in the field of property technology (prop-tech). These meetings are structured to facilitate mutual learning and insights, serving as a foundation for ongoing interaction and collaboration. The first round of these sessions focuses specifically on prop-tech, offering a platform where real estate professionals, technology experts, and innovators can discuss challenges, explore innovative solutions, and share knowledge. This collaborative environment is aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of both the needs and the potential solutions within the property sector, laying the groundwork for future advancements and sustainable growth in the industry—and other industries to follow during 2024.Â
Internationalisation support
Activities for Internationalisation at Norrköping Science Park have taken significant strides over the past year, with several successful initiatives contributing to increased global presence and marketing efforts. Our participation in Lopec 2023 was a breakthrough, where our network's green electronics, solar cells, and batteries received considerable international attention. This exposure has been crucial for our marketing and brand building, as exemplified and detailed in our news report: Norrköping Science Park News.
Additionally, some of the POE companies have been part of Business Sweden's LEAP Accelerator program, which has been instrumental in increasing the companies' understanding of how to successfully select and enter new markets, key to continued growth and development.
Furthermore, the Central Baltic projects Scaleup Launchpad, Scaleable, and Bridging4Growth are designed to provide essential support for POE businesses and other impact companies, facilitating their expansion and international reach. For more information, visit:Â Central Baltic Projects.
GIVE/HOPE Workshop on Market Creation and Market Shaping Activities
This insightful seminar with Prof. Daniel Kindström emphasized the fluidity of modern markets, particularly emergent ones, and the importance for companies to proactively shape these markets. Companies need to focus on creating and shaping markets to attract customers, generate demand, and create value.Â
Proactive market shaping involves using a broad set of tools and engaging a wider range of market actors beyond direct customers. Prof. Kindström's research and experience with SMEs and large companies highlight the significance of innovative market strategies and sustainable growth. Future market strategies will likely focus on creating and shaping markets for new value-creation opportunities, leveraging the interactive nature of emergent markets. Read more about Prof. Kindströms work here:
Partnership with Digital Cellulose Center
NOSP has recently partnered with the Digital Cellulose Center (DCC), a Vinnova-funded competence centre, to enhance innovation in digital cellulose and sustainable energy storage solutions. This collaboration aligns with NOSP's strategic commitment to sustainable technology development.
The DCC, engaging three academic institutions and several companies, focuses on integrating cellulose-based products into sustainable digital applications, working across six research projects. These projects aim to advance greener electronics and expand the use of wood-based materials in technology.
NOSP's role in this partnership is crucial for developing a research-based innovation cluster, especially in energy and energy storage sectors, contributing to sustainable and climate-neutral technologies. This collaboration also involves fostering industry-academia collaborations, for introducing innovative technology solutions.
Printed Electronics Arena (PEA)
PEA is a close partner of Norrköping Science Park. They assist industrial clients in accessing advanced research findings related to printed and hybrid electronics systems. PEA assists companies in development of components, systems and production methods. PEA guarantees confidentiality and is well-equipped to tackle complex challenges. It has been recognized as a Key Enabling Technology facility by the EU.Â
PEA is operated by the Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE) and Linköping University. They cover the entire spectrum from molecular development to prototype creation in deep tech. One example of what PEA offers is participation in the EMerge project, part of the EU Horizon initiative, which provides state-of-the-art research infrastructure for sustainable flexible large-area printed electronics and photonics (FLAPEP). This program is especially beneficial for individuals, organizations, industries, and SMEs focused on sustainable flexible large-area printed additive manufacturing technologies.
The EMerge project provides fully pre-funded and sponsored opportunities, supporting comprehensive user projects for leading-edge multi- and trans-disciplinary research. It accommodates small projects for up to ten working days, encompassing a wide range of focus areas including functional materials, flexible electronics, printed electronics, 3D printing, green electronics, biosensors, smart diagnostic platforms, flexible energy sources, and nanogenerators. The infrastructure and services are categorized into four transnational activities (TA), catering to diverse project needs.
Interested parties can check the dedicated website for detailed information about the EMerge project. The next call for the EMerge project is scheduled from December 15, 2023, to January 30, 2024. Prospective users can contact PEA for pre-discussions about potential projects with RISE and partner institutions.
PEA and projects like the EMerge project are invaluable resources for those interested in accessing top-tier research and development facilities in the field of printed and organic electronics. The focus on sustainability, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive support makes PEA an attractive partner for advancing innovations in this sector.
Investments in Printed and Organic Electronics increased
Investments in Printed and Organic Electronics are currently experiencing a significant and promising growth trajectory. Within our network, several companies stand out for their advancements and innovations in this field. Most notably, these companies have their roots in the research conducted at Linköping University and its vibrant surrounding ecosystem. This list includes a range of dynamic startups and established firms, except Rivus Batteries (Alma mater Chalmers University), which, although not directly originating from Linköping University, still exemplifies the thriving sector. Each of these organisations showcases the successful translation of academic research into commercially viable and cutting-edge technological solutions, underlining the importance and potential of investments in Printed and Organic Electronics.
Cellfion: Specializing in eco-friendly energy storage solutions, Cellfion AB received significant investment in 2022. Almi Invest Greentech invested in the company for its innovative approach to energy storage, emphasizing environmental sustainability. More details can be found at Cellfion AB News.
Epishine: This company raised 60 million SEK ($5.5 million) on July 6, 2023, in a funding round that included investors like Vigo Carlund and Philian Invest. The investment is earmarked for enhancing product development and scaling up production. Epishine is known for unveiling the world's most resource-efficient solar cell factory. More information is available at Epishine News.
Ligna Energy: In 2023, Ligna Energy AB successfully raised 1.3 million euros, achieving a valuation of €10M. This round saw new investments from Neptunia Invest and Cebon Group, marking a milestone in the company's growth trajectory.
n-ink: December 2023 saw n-ink AB, a company specializing in inks for printed electronics, complete its first investment round, raising 13.3 MSEK. Navigare Seed contributed 10 MSEK, and Almi Invest provided 3.3 MSEK. This funding boost is aimed at supporting product development and launching two new products in 2023. n-ink AB stands out for its sustainable, high-performing n-type inks, along with scalable and eco-friendly production processes.
Rivus Batteries: This company secured €525,000 in investments, with contributions from Kista Science Ventures, NAVCAP AB, and EIT. The funds are dedicated to scaling up electrolyte production and initiating pilot battery installations with customers.
Example of new Products from our Network
Epishine: Continues to lead in solar energy with its innovative light-harvesting technology, producing sustainable and efficient solar cells for renewable energy applications. Epishine has introduced its second innovative product, OneCell, to the market. Building on their high-performance solar cells, OneCell combines market-leading efficiency in low-light conditions with an enhanced focus on design.
Ligna Energy: Pioneering in the field of supercapacitors, Ligna Energy is enhancing energy storage capabilities significantly with their advancement in bio-based supercapacitors, indicative of rapid progression in energy storage technology. Ligna Energy has launched the "S-Power 2S", a compact and powerful supercapacitor for IoT devices, boasting over double the energy capacity of its predecessor, faster charging, and a smaller, greener design
Cellfion: A membrane solution, vital for energy storage devices, is an innovative and sustainable approach utilising nanocellulose derived from wood. These PFAS-free membranes are created through an environmentally friendly process and possess key properties such as conductivity, ion-conductivity, liquid and gas barrier capabilities, tunability, non-toxicity, and biodegradability, making them a clean and green option for energy storage.
DP Patterning: The DPP-360 by DP Patterning represents a significant innovation in the field of flexible circuit board manufacturing. This product is designed to be a sustainable, state-of-the-art solution that can be integrated seamlessly into electronic assembly processes. The DPP-360 is particularly notable for its smart and accessible design, which is aimed at providing cost-efficient and automated operations for system and solution providers.
At the heart of the DPP-360 is the Dry-Phase Patterning (DPP) technology. This method revolutionizes the manufacturing of conducting structures on flexible materials such as metals, paper, or plastic.
Signostium is transforming stairwell information management in multi-tenant buildings with a sustainable, turn-key digital solution. By integrating advanced components from Epishine and Ligna Energy, their self-powered device offers cost savings and eco-friendly facility management without the need for external power or replaceable batteries. This innovation streamlines information updates in apartment buildings, enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability.
n-Ink is transforming the field of printed electronics with its patented, high-performance n-type inks, ideal for IoT and electronic applications. These inks, developed in collaboration with Linköping University's Laboratory of Organic Electronics, are flexible, scalable, and eco-friendly, suitable for a range of applications like organic solar cells and OLEDs. With features like high electron conduction, thermal stability, and over-printability, n-Ink's products are pioneering advancements in sustainable and efficient electronic manufacturing.
Rivus Batteries stands at the forefront of sustainable battery technology, specializing in the development of organic flow batteries. These batteries, utilizing environmentally friendly organic electrolytes, offer a sustainable alternative to traditional battery systems. Their scalability and flexibility make them suitable for various applications, from portable devices to large-scale energy storage, aligning well with the global shift towards renewable energy. Rivus Batteries' innovation in organic flow batteries marks a significant step in advancing eco-friendly energy solutions, contributing to a more sustainable future in energy storage.
ParsNord is developing thermoelectric solutions, focusing on converting heat directly into electricity. This technology represents a groundbreaking approach to energy efficiency, harnessing waste heat and other heat sources for power generation. Thermoelectric systems offer a novel method for energy recovery, potentially transforming how industries manage and utilize heat. ParsNord's work in this area is pivotal, contributing to advancements in sustainable energy technology and offering practical applications across various sectors. For more detailed insights into their technology and innovations, visit parsnord.dk.
These companies are driving significant advancements in their respective fields, shaping the future of sustainable technology and energy solutions.
Selected Research in Printed Electronics
Here is a selection of ongoing research nearby of Norrköping Science Park:Â
Cultivated Electrodes: Researchers at Linköping University have developed a method to grow soft electrodes in living tissue, utilizing the body's molecules as triggers. This breakthrough, recognized by Physics World as one of the year's major global physics breakthroughs, aims to create fully integrated electronic circuits in living organisms, with potential applications in understanding complex biological functions, combating brain diseases, and developing man-machine interfaces​.
Organic Electronics: Simone Fabiano's work at Linköping University has led to a novel approach to organic electronics. By mixing two polymers with the right energy levels, electrical charges can move spontaneously, rendering doping unnecessary and enhancing the stability of organic materials. This discovery has significant implications for various applications like IoT devices, solar cells, and bioelectronics​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​.
Wood-Based Organic Solar CellsLinköping University and KTH Royal Institute of Technology have shown that kraft lignin, a common organic material from wood, can be used to create stable and environmentally friendly organic solar cells. By incorporating lignin into the electron transport layer of solar cells, they aim to replace oil-based materials with wood-based alternatives, enhancing the environmental friendliness of solar cells​​​​​​​.
HyPELignum ProjectFunded by the European Union, this project aims to demonstrate the sustainability of consumer electronics and IoT solutions using additive manufacturing and wood-based materials. The goal is to develop net-zero carbon electronics and an energy-efficient microchip for sensing systems, exploring new ways to recycle wood and recover electronic materials
​​​.
Bio-based Moisture Sensors for Wood: The Digital Cellulose Center is working on bio-based moisture sensors for wood. These sensors utilize cellulose-based materials to detect moisture levels, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional electronic moisture sensors. This technology has potential applications in various industries, including construction, where monitoring wood moisture is crucial​​.
These research initiatives represent a significant push towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly electronics, leveraging organic materials and innovative techniques.
Accolades and AwardsÂ
Our associated companies within the field of technology have garnered significant accolades and awards recently, showcasing their innovation and contribution to the tech industry. Here are some examples from 2023:
Epishine's Award in the ABB Electrification Challenge 2023Epishine emerged as ithe winner n the smart building category of the ABB Electrification Challenge 2023. The judges were particularly impressed by Epishine's commitment to sustainability, highlighting their innovation in delivering self-powered smart residential and commercial building devices. These devices have long lifespans and can be conveniently placed without the need for wiring. As part of the award, Epishine will collaborate with ABB to develop a proof of concept, aiming to launch a common solution for ABB's global customer base​​​​.
Norrköping Tech Award - Ligna EnergyLigna Energy was announced as the first winner of the Norrköping Tech Award, an accolade organized by Norrköping Science Park in collaboration with leading Norrköping tech companies. This award recognizes innovative companies that contribute significantly to technological advancements​​.
Ligna Energy Among Sweden's 33 Best Tech StartupsLigna Energy was selected as one of Sweden's 33 best tech startups by Ny Teknik, a recognition given to the most innovative and promising young technology companies in Sweden. CEO Peter Ringstad expressed that this honour drives the company further towards their mission of providing the world with green and safe energy storage solutions​​.
These achievements not only reflect the technological prowess and innovative spirit of these companies but also their significant potential to impact and transform their respective industries and contribute to broader technological shifts in society.
Top Five Opportunities in Printed Electronics
Based on the key market drivers and trends in printed and organic electronics, along with the implications of the EU Chips Act, the top five opportunities are:
Sustainable Electronic Solutions Development:Â The global drive for sustainability is accelerating the development of environmentally friendly electronic solutions. This presents an opportunity to innovate in green technology, especially in creating eco-friendly and energy-efficient electronic products.
Material Innovation in Response to Sourcing Challenges:Â Concerns over scarce and toxic raw materials, coupled with geopolitical tensions, are spurring innovation in materials. There is a significant opportunity to develop new, sustainable materials that address these scarcity and toxicity issues, enhancing product performance and reducing environmental impact.
Advancements in Printing Technologies: The evolution of printing technologies, such as inkjet and flexographic printing, is enabling more efficient production. This opens opportunities for improving manufacturing processes, reducing costs, and increasing the versatility and quality of printed electronics.
Growth in Wearable and Automotive Electronics:Â The commercial success in sectors like wearable technology in medicine, health and wellbeing and the automotive industry, including advancements in EV battery heaters, antennas, and OLED displays, indicates a growing market. Companies can capitalize on these areas by developing innovative products that cater to these expanding markets.
E-Waste Reduction and New Product Form Factors: With a growing focus on reducing e-waste and developing sustainable, compostable, and recyclable electronic products, there is a notable opportunity in designing electronics that are both environmentally friendly and feature new form factors, such as flexibility and stretchability.
The EU Chips Act's focus on increasing the production of semiconductors in Europe and enhancing the region's competitiveness and technological sovereignty in this field further underscores these opportunities. The act aims to double the EU's global market share in semiconductors by 2030, which can catalyze growth and innovation in the European electronics sector
Norrköping: The Ideal Destination for Entrepreneurs and Brands Seeking Sustainable and Profitable Growth with Printed Electronics
Â
For entrepreneurs and brand owners in the electronics industry aiming to integrate sustainability into their products, Norrköping represents an ideal convergence of resources, expertise, and support. It offers a unique ecosystem As a brand or product owner in the electronics industry, it's essential to adopt sustainable and profitable development practices. Norrköping, located in the Östergötland region of Sweden, presents a compelling case for entrepreneurs looking to integrate sustainability into their products. The city is a hub for innovation in Printed Electronics, offering a gateway to a future where technology aligns with environmental consciousness and market viability.
Printed Electronics technology offers lower material usage, reduced energy consumption, and innovative, eco-friendly design possibilities, making it a path to more sustainable electronic products. Linköping University (LiU) is known for its leading research in materials science and Printed Electronics. Collaborating with LiU opens doors to cutting-edge research, a talented pool of graduates, and opportunities for co-developing sustainable electronic solutions.
The Printed Electronics Arena in Norrköping provides facilities and expertise for developing and testing prototypes, ensuring that sustainability features are practically achievable and market-ready. Initiatives like Ignite from SISP facilitate partnerships with larger corporations, enhancing market access and product validation. Norrköping Science Park and LEAD Business Incubator offer a nurturing environment for startups to grow, while LIU Innovation aids in translating academic research into marketable products. IMA, Innovative Materials Arena, support growth and collaboration within the field of advanced and innovative materials.
Entrepreneurs can find financial backing and strategic advice from entities like Almi and global market expansion support from Business Sweden. The region's industrial networks offer real-world testing and feedback, invaluable for refining a sustainable product. Norrköping's culture of collaboration ensures that innovations are shaped by a community of like-minded innovators and experts.
Moreover, Norrköping is more than an innovation hub; it's a city with a high quality of life, critical for attracting and retaining the talent that will drive your business forward.
Conclusions and Future Outlook
The year 2023 marks a significant advancement in printed electronics, characterized by multifaceted drivers, impressive technical advancements, and commercial successes. The industry is poised for continued growth and innovation, underpinned by sustainability, supply chain resilience, and the creation of versatile eco-friendly products.
The need for investors and investments in the field of printed electronics is underscored by the sector's expected growth and evolving market dynamics. The global printed electronics market is projected to reach significant values by 2032, with estimates ranging from $52.58 billion to $75.2 billion, emphasizing a substantial growth trajectory. This growth is characterized by various trends and advancements in the sector, highlighting the potential for lucrative investment opportunities.
In summary, the printed electronics market presents a compelling opportunity for investors, driven by technological advancements, diverse applications, regional growth prospects, and a focus on sustainability. However, considerations around performance limitations, manufacturing complexities, and market competition are essential for informed investment decisions.
We look forward to continuing our journey with our partners to shape the future of this field.