Fusion IP launches new spin-out company

Seren Photonics is developing a device which it says will greatly increase the efficiency at which an LED converts energy into light.

Sheffield-based Fusion, which turns university research into business, has a 60 per cent holding in the firm.

The research is being led by Dr Tao Wang, from Sheffield University's department of electronic and electrical engineering,

Successful demonstrations of the technology have so far resulted in a doubling of the light output compared to other devices, which means that either much brighter lamps can be manufactured or that the power consumption of lamps can be further reduced to a single watt.

Seren Photonic's technology is targeted at the large and fast growing white LED markets such as back lighting for laptop computers and TVs, signs and displays as well as domestic and architectural lighting.

The market is currently worth an estimated $5bn and is predicted to grow to $12bn by 2013.

Dr Wang said: "It is a great honour for me and my research team to collaborate with Fusion IP and realise our ambition to commercialise our technology. Fusion's commercial, managerial and financial support, combined with the support of the university and my department, have been vital for the creation of Seren.

"Seren Photonics hopes to unlock the full potential of nitride-based, ultrahigh efficient, white LEDs and complete the illumination revolution, we are currently experiencing."

Dr Carl Griffiths, managing director of Seren Photonics, added: "This is an exciting technology and a great example of how the injection of scientific know-how and commercial sector skills can facilitate the conversion of Sheffield's world class IP pipeline into businesses with real value, both financial and social."