LED technology

University of Cambridge spin-out CamGaN has been acquired by semiconductor manufacturor Plessey.

CamGaN was formed in 2010 to commercialise a novel technology for the cost-effective manufacture of key components of high-brightness light-emitting diodes (HB-LEDs).

The technology has the potential to dramatically reduce the cost of solid-state lighting devices that are expected to replace incandescent and fluorescent lightbulbs.

“The CamGaN technology represents a significant breakthrough in the field of solid-state lighting,” said Professor Sir Colin Humphreys, chairman and co-founder of CamGaN.

Plessey, based in Plymouth, plans to bring to market products for replacement lamps based on CamGaN technology within the next two years.

“We are pleased to have secured an opportunity for our technology with a major semiconductor brand that will accelerate mass production,” said CamGaN chief executive Dr Andrew Lynn.

“This technology provides Plessey with a significant commercial breakthrough in a rapidly emerging industry.”