From e-waste to opportunity: printed electronics for a sustainable future

Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing environmental threats. Millions of discarded devices pollute our planet and deplete critical resources. At TNO, we are turning this challenge into an opportunity with printed electronics technology: flexible, recyclable, repairable, and potentially compostable alternatives to traditional electronics. By moving innovations from the lab to the market, we pave the way for a circular electronics industry. Through partnerships with leading companies and spin-offs like TracXon, we are building solutions that deliver global impact.

How we are making an impact

A foundation for sustainable tech

'This technology is not just another innovation; it can form the basis for an entirely new Dutch industry. From design to production, repair and recycling. Imagine: electronics made in Europe.' - Stephan Harkema, programme manager Printed Electronics at TNO.

In the future, our electronics will simply come out of the printer

Timesetter Iris works on technology that truly makes a difference

'During tests with volunteers, you see your work really come to life. That’s when you realise: this is genuinely going to help people.' - Iris Kerkhof, Researcher Printed Electronics

Time setter in the spotlight: the tech by Iris Kerkhof that you can feel on your skin

Scaling up through TracXon: from lab to market

‘Decades of TNO research laid the foundation. Now, scaling printed electronics to mass production is not just TracXon’s challenge, it is our greatest opportunity to transform the electronics industry.’ – Ashok Sridhar, CEO of TracXon.

From non-recyclable to sustainable electronics: how TracXon is scaling the technology