Sofradir invested 150 million euros to promote the development of infrared sensors

         Sofradir and its subsidiary Ulis will invest 150 million euros in the development of the next generation of infrared detectors for the French Nano2022 project, according to Maims Consulting. Nano2022 is France's action plan to support the development of nanotechnology, which will provide funding for new microelectronics test lines.

       STMicroelectronics and Sotec, as well as other companies in the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes region, are involved in the project, with Sofradir and Ulis operating in the region. The Ovonne-Ronald-Alps region contributed 35 million euros to the project.

      Ulis plans to use the Nano2022 test line to develop the next generation of infrared detectors to meet the needs of intelligent building automation systems (workspace management and energy saving), road safety and in-car comfort.

       These test lines will also help Sofradir develop ultra-large infrared detectors for space and astronomical observations, as well as compact and portable sensors for portable devices and UAV applications.

       “Infrared technology can provide the necessary solutions to improve life, travel, energy efficiency, security and environmental monitoring, which are important needs of human society," said Jean-Fran? OIS Delepau, chairman and CEO of Sofradir and Ulis. "As we invest, equipment manufacturers will benefit from the ease of use and performance provided by these new products."

       On December 18, 2018, the European Commission approved the European Common Interest Important Project (IPCEI), a joint project of France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom, which will provide 1.75 billion euros of public support for research and innovation in the field of microelectronics.

        The IPCEI framework proposes key cross-border R&D and infrastructure projects designed to encourage member countries to spend their public expenditures on large-scale projects. These projects will contribute significantly to European economic growth, job creation and competitiveness.