Phlux Technology, a Sheffield-based infrared sensor startup, has raised €10.7 million in a Series A funding round to enable the next generation of fibre broadband connectivity and expand into the optical communications and sensing markets.
The funding round was led by BGF with existing investors Octopus Ventures, Northern Gritstone, and Foresight also participating.
Ben White, CEO of Phlux, 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.”
Founded in 2020 as a spin-out from the University of Sheffield, Phlux has built a global supply chain and serves customers across Asia, Europe, and North America.
The company’s patented technology is the result of eight years of research at the University and its Co-founders are Ben White (CEO), Jo Shien Ng (Professor of Semiconductor Devices), Chee Hing Tan (Professor of Opto-Electronic Sensors).
Phlux’s infrared sensors are reportedly more sensitive than current alternatives while requiring less power – this can mean faster, more efficient connectivity for applications like fibre-optic broadband, and advanced LIDAR sensing for vehicles and a range of industrial applications.
Phlux designs, manufactures and markets 1550 nm infrared (IR) sensors 12x more sensitive than alternatives. As per Phlux, their Noiseless InGaAs Avalanche Photodiodes (APD) detect signals at up to 50% greater distance in range finders, LiDAR systems, and optical fibre test equipment.
In “every application“, Phlux sensors boost performance, simplify thermal management, and cut system cost and size through relaxing laser and optics requirements. The sensors are available as bare die or in industry-standard surface-mount or wire-ended packages, so can be retrofitted to existing systems.
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. Backed by BGF’s deep tech investment experience, we’re excited to support Phlux in scaling globally across the sensing and telecommunications markets.”
With the ability to boost data transmission speeds by up to five times, Phlux’s technology could enable the next generation of internet connectivity, with data rates as high as 50 gigabits per second – according to figures provided by Phlux.
Owen Metters, Investor at Octopus Ventures, added: “When we first invested in Phlux, we were impressed with both the team’s expertise in developing novel semiconductor materials, and their ambition to revolutionise infrared sensing. 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.”
Duncan Johnson, CEO of Northern Gritstone, said: “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 and Northern Gritstone is proud to continue supporting the Phlux team under Ben White’s leadership.”
This funding follows a Seed funding round of €4.7 million led by Octopus Ventures in December 2022.
The company now plans to scale its team, increase production capacity, and strengthen its commercial partnerships to meet growing international demand.
Read the orginal article: https://www.eu-startups.com/2025/03/phlux-technology-bags-over-e10-million-for-their-infrared-sensor-technology/
