Japanese DNP opens Dutch R&D hub in partnership with TNO

Through this collaboration, DNP strengthens its global R&D footprint while contributing to the Dutch innovation landscape. For TNO, the partnership reinforces its mission to bridge fundamental research and industrial application.

As global data volumes surge due to generative AI and digital transformation, the energy demands of data centers have become a pressing societal issue. Co-Packaged Optics, the integration of optical and electronic technologies, offers a breakthrough solution. It enables ultra-fast data processing with significantly lower power consumption, making it a promising candidate for future semiconductor applications.

Joint research program

DNP and TNO will collaborate with the Photonic Integration Technology Centre (PITC) to conduct a three-year joint research program. The focus will be on developing advanced packaging components that integrate optical and electrical circuits. This includes leveraging DNP’s expertise in microfabrication and precision coating, and TNO’s applied research capabilities and system integration know-how.

Hideto Sakata, Corporate Officers, Head of Technology and R&D Division at DNP: ‘We are very pleased with this collaboration with TNO/PITC. We expect this collaboration will elevate our global technology strategy and contribute to sustainable digital infrastructure. By establishing a new R&D center in HTCE, the smartest global high-tech cluster, we will accelerate open innovation and advanced technologies such as integrated photonics.’

Ton van Mol, managing director at TNO: ‘We are proud and honored that DNP has chosen Eindhoven as their first overseas base for innovation, a decision that reinforces our country’s leadership in key enabling technologies such as integrated photonics. These international partnerships also play a vital role in helping the Netherlands achieve its ambition of investing 3% of GDP in R&D.’

About DNP

DNP was established in 1876, and has become a leading global company that leverages print-based solutions to engineer fresh business opportunities while protecting the environment and creating a more vibrant world for all. We capitalize on core competencies in microfabrication and precision coating technology to provide products for the display, electronic device, and optical film markets. We have also developed new products, such as vapor chamber and reflect array that offer next-generation communication solutions for more people-friendly information society.