Promerus, LLC and Sumitomo Bakelite Co., Ltd.
Elevating Optical Transmission for Next-Generation Applications

In the ever-evolving realm of data transmission, communications have become increasingly data-intensive, shifting from traditional copper-based electrical communication to optical communication to effectively manage the surging demands. Conventional optical wiring is bulky and difficult to bend, leading to excessive data loss.

This necessitates innovation in transmission technology for better energy efficiency and reduced data loss. Promerus, in collaboration with its parent company, Sumitomo Bakelite Co., Ltd., is revolutionizing optical communication by offering polymer waveguides (PWG), a flexible optical circuit film with low optical propagation loss and minimal crosstalk. Promerus’ work in this area includes aspects such as transparency and reactivity to light, which are crucial factors affecting the performance of PWGs.

“Our expertise lies in polymer synthesis for use in next-generation application development, which revolves around our research at the nexus of light, polymer and reactivity upon exposure,” says Dr. Larry F. Rhodes, General Manager at Promerus.

An R&D powerhouse within Sumitomo Bakelite, Promerus develops advanced material solutions for use in semiconductor, optoelectronics, and electronic packaging applications.

Promerus’ extensive expertise in catalysis, polymerization, and the creation of a library of functional norbornene monomers allows it to customize polymer properties according to customer needs. With its capabilities in catalysis and monomer production, it offers flexibility and energy efficiency in its PWG products to customers.

The development of polymer optical waveguides stems from pioneering research conducted years ago that uses the company’s original polymer material and unique manufacturing method.

The distinct structural configuration of Promerus’ polymers results in high glass transition temperatures, a boon for applications demanding high levels of heat resistance.

Tracing its roots to the esteemed corporate research laboratories of BF Goodrich, Promerus’ history highlights a compelling narrative that emphasizes its dedication to innovation. It excelled at researching and developing products based on a novel class of polymers known as polynorbornene, and was engaged specifically in evaluating polymer transparency at a wavelength of 850 nanometers.

Today, it explores innovative applications of its polymers in the fields of optics and electronics, as well as in membranes and three-dimensional printing resins.

The PWG manufacturing process employs a light-addressing technique, which involves the use of a specialized reactive film that interacts with light to precisely configure the waveguides within the polymeric film.

This approach offers exceptional flexibility, particularly when contrasted with earlier-stage prototypes that relied on expensive mechanical addressing techniques, including the thermoforming of films.

PWG solutions offer a distinct advantage over conventional optical wiring, which is difficult to bend due to the bulky optical fiber bundle. High-density multi-core optical wiring is also possible, facilitating large-capacity data transmission.

Branching of optical wiring tends to be cumbersome, posing the risk of wire breakage at cross-sections and excessive signal loss within the fusion region. Optical branching and coupling functionalities can be easily added by forming a branch circuit. Adjusting the distribution ratio is also possible in PWG without incurring excessive loss by producing fine claddings in the branch region.

With an impressive portfolio of 200 issued US patents, Promerus employs a team of seasoned experts who are the engine behind Promerus’ innovation. Among them, many are actively engaged in R&D activities and possess diverse academic backgrounds, including material science, polymer science, chemistry, and chemical engineering.

Promerus’ parent company Sumitomo Bakelite Co., Ltd., fuels the pursuit of novel PWG materials and plays a vital role in scaling up materials and product development in Japan.

As Promerus and Sumitomo Bakelite push the boundaries of PWG capabilities, their commitment to research, innovation, and collaboration keeps them at the forefront of the industry, poised to shape the future of electronic materials.