PETEC opens its doors

Tom Taylor, director of PETEC, said: "The UK has a well established competence in research in printable electronics whereas PETEC's focus is in accelerating the commercialisation of these products through the production processes and solving technology issues that companies face in developing new products." The Centre, a division of the Centre for Process Innovation Limited (CPI), is intended to connect innovators in research with commercial activity using proof of concept devices and pilot scale manufacture. The Centre helps clients identify the materials, industrial steps and investments required to bring products to market quickly. "PETEC offers experience, knowledge, and the appropriate infrastructure to support customers in this emerging global market," said Taylor. PETEC's initial focus will be on displays, where there is already commercial pressure to produce larger area displays that are more efficient and at lower cost. Other near term markets include solid state lighting and organic photovoltaics. Polyphotonix, an OLED lighting company, is building its first production line at PETEC. CEO Richard Kirk noted: "PETEC has been pivotal to creation of PolyPhotonix. Without access to the facilities, management expertise and experience it would have been prohibitively expensive. The ability to work quickly and effectively is crucial in this fast moving technology environment."