MANCHESTER, England, Aug. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Smartkem (Nasdaq: SMTK), which is seeking to change the world of electronics with a new class of transistor technology, today provides a business update and reports its financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025.Second quarter 2025 and recent highlights included: Introducing a 12.3-inch MicroLED Smart Backlight demonstration targeting next-generation automotive LCD displays. Signing a preliminary joint development agreement with Manz ...

Core Viewpoint - Smartkem has entered into a preliminary Joint Development Agreement (JDA) with Manz Asia to co-develop next-generation dielectric ink solutions for advanced packaging manufacturing, particularly for AI chip applications [1][2] Company Overview - Smartkem is focused on revolutionizing electronics with a new class of transistors using proprietary advanced semiconductor materials, specifically TRUFLEX® semiconductor polymers, which enable low-temperature printing processes [4][5] - The company has a strong intellectual property portfolio, including 140 granted patents across 17 families, 14 pending patents, and 40 codified trade secrets [6] Industry Context - The collaboration aims to address critical bottlenecks in advanced computer and AI chip packaging by combining Smartkem's semiconductor materials with Manz's precision inkjet technology [2] - The demand for AI computing is driving the need for advancements in 12" wafer-level packaging and large-area panel packaging, which could transform data center infrastructure [2] Joint Development Agreement Details - The JDA is focused on developing scalable, high-performance solutions that enhance manufacturing paradigms, aiming for higher yield and lower cost per packaged chip [2] - The agreement is preliminary and non-binding, with no assurance of a definitive agreement or project outcome [3] Manz Asia Overview - Manz Asia is a leading manufacturer of advanced semiconductor equipment, specializing in CoPoS technology for panel-level packaging [7][8] - The company provides comprehensive equipment solutions that enhance production efficiency and optimize process quality in semiconductor packaging [9]

Core Insights - Smartkem has received a UK patent for a new method of MicroLED display manufacturing, enhancing efficiency and sustainability in the production process [1][2] - The patented method allows for selective removal of MicroLEDs from a source wafer, significantly reducing material waste and production costs compared to traditional methods [2][3] - Smartkem's IP portfolio includes 140 granted patents across 17 families, indicating a strong position in the semiconductor materials market [2][6] Company Overview - Smartkem is focused on developing advanced transistor technology using proprietary semiconductor materials, aiming to revolutionize the electronics industry [4] - The company's TRUFLEX® semiconductor polymers enable low-temperature printing processes compatible with existing manufacturing infrastructure, targeting low-cost, high-performance displays [4] - Smartkem operates R&D facilities in Manchester, UK, and provides prototyping services at the Centre for Process Innovation in Sedgefield, UK [5] Manufacturing Process - The new MicroLED manufacturing method involves preparing a MicroLED wafer, applying an adhesion layer, and selectively transferring only necessary LEDs to a display substrate [2][3] - This approach allows the source wafer to be reused multiple times, leading to lower display costs compared to traditional monolithic methods [3]