Phlux Technology

Phlux Technology is a University of Sheffield spin-out developing the world's most sensitive infrared sensors for LiDAR, rangefinders, and optical fibre applications. Founded in 2020 by CEO Ben White alongside Professors Jo Shien Ng and Chee Hing Tan, the company commercialises more than eight years of Sheffield research into novel antimony-based compound semiconductor materials for infrared detection — a scientific breakthrough that overcomes the performance plateau that silicon-based InGaAs sensors have reached.

The company's Noiseless InGaAs Avalanche Photodiodes (APDs) are up to 12 times more sensitive than conventional alternatives and extend the detection range of optical systems by up to 50% for the same laser power. Available as drop-in replacements for existing APDs in standard surface-mount and wire-ended packages, Phlux sensors immediately improve the performance of LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles, optical fibre test equipment, and high-speed optical communications — including enabling data transmission speeds of up to 50 gigabits per second.

Phlux raised a €10.7 million Series A in 2025 led by BGF and Octopus Ventures, with further backing from Northern Gritstone and Foresight Group, following a €4.7 million seed round in 2022. The company has won the Institute of Physics Business Start-Up Award 2024, serves customers across Asia, Europe, and North America, and is scaling its Sheffield-based manufacturing operation to meet growing global demand.