Phlux Technology secures €10.7M in Series A funding to enhance its infrared sensor solutions for optical communications and advanced sensing markets.

Phlux Technology, a startup based in Sheffield, has raised €10.7 million in Series A funding to grow its footprint in optical communications and sensing. The round was led by BGF, with backing from Octopus Ventures, Northern Gritstone, and Foresight. This follows an earlier €4.7 million seed round in 2022.

The company is known for its patented infrared sensor technology, spun out of eight years of research at the University of Sheffield. Founded in 2020, its leadership team includes CEO Ben White and Professors Jo Shien Ng and Chee Hing Tan. Phlux’s mission is to remove a long-standing bottleneck in optical communication.

Its sensors are designed to be 12 times more sensitive than current options, while using less power. The 1550 nm infrared devices can detect signals up to 50% farther, making them ideal for fibre-optic broadband, LiDAR, and optical test systems. According to Phlux, these performance boosts simplify design and reduce costs.

CEO Ben White said: “This funding comes at a pivotal moment as demand for high-speed optical communication systems is growing enormously. By developing world-class, high-performance infrared sensors, we are enabling industries to push the boundaries of connectivity, sensitivity and efficiency by removing a technology bottleneck that has persisted for over 20 years.”

The new investment will support the scaling of Phlux’s team and production capacity, as well as the commercial launch of two new product lines. It will also help the company expand partnerships and reach more customers globally. The startup already serves clients in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Backers say Phlux has the potential to become a global leader in the space. Luke Rajah, Partner at BGF, said: “Phlux has developed a game-changing technology in a sector that’s long overdue for disruption. With strong academic roots, early commercial traction, and a compelling roadmap, the team is well-positioned to lead in infrared sensing.”

Owen Metters of Octopus Ventures echoed the sentiment, stating, “We’ve been delighted with their progress to date and are excited to see this funding deployed to grow the team and bring two exciting new product ranges to market.”

Phlux’s technology could increase data speeds by up to five times, with potential data rates hitting 50 Gbps. The devices are suited to both existing and new systems thanks to flexible packaging options, including surface-mount and wire-ended versions.

Duncan Johnson, CEO of Northern Gritstone, noted the importance of infrared tech in everyday applications: “Infrared sensors are advancing many critical everyday areas such as providing internet access to people’s homes and aiding advanced safety and mobility. Phlux is a fantastic example of semiconductor innovation in the North of England.”

The company’s long-term goal is to become the world leader in infrared sensing by expanding its engineering and commercial teams and deepening industry collaborations. This latest injection of capital will help accelerate that ambition and strengthen its impact across multiple industries.

Phlux says its antimonide-based semiconductor platform provides a step change in sensor efficiency. The sensors offer a balance of ultra-low noise, high sensitivity, and power savings for use in automotive, defence, telecommunications, and industrial sensing markets.

With global demand rising for smarter, faster, and more reliable communication tools, Phlux is positioning itself at the heart of this evolution. Its innovative approach aims to address real-world connectivity challenges through science-backed semiconductor engineering.