Phlux Technology

Phlux Technology is a semiconductor company that designs and manufactures high-performance infrared sensors for the optical communications and sensing markets. The company was established in 2020 as a spin-out from the University of Sheffield. It was founded by Ben White (CEO), Professor Jo Shien Ng, and Professor Chee Hing Tan, who developed the core technology during eight years of research at the university. White, an expert in infrared detectors who completed his PhD at the University of Sheffield, was awarded a Royal Academy of Engineering Enterprise Fellowship in 2020 to commercialize the research. Phlux Technology's core product is a portfolio of Noiseless InGaAs® Avalanche Photodiodes (APDs) marketed under the Aura brand name. These sensors are built on a patented technology that incorporates an antimony-based alloy into the manufacturing process. This design results in sensors that are significantly more sensitive—reportedly up to 12 times more—than traditional indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) APDs. The primary benefit is the ability to detect weaker light signals, which extends the effective range of sensing systems like LiDAR by up to 50% and can increase data rates for fiber optic communications by up to five times. The sensors operate at the 1550 nm wavelength, which is considered eye-safe and allows for higher power laser use compared to the 905 nm systems. The company operates a fabless business model, managing a global supply chain to produce its sensors, which are sold to customers across Asia, Europe, and North America. Its products are designed as drop-in replacements for existing components, facilitating easier upgrades for clients. Phlux serves markets such as autonomous vehicles (LiDAR), telecommunications (fiber optic testing and free-space optical communications), industrial automation, and defense. The firm's business strategy involves initially targeting high-value, low-volume applications before scaling to mass markets like automotive. Phlux Technology has secured significant funding to support its growth, including a £4 million seed round in December 2022 and a £9 million Series A round in March 2025. These funds are being used to expand the team, increase production capacity, and accelerate commercial partnerships. Keywords: infrared sensors, avalanche photodiodes, APD, antimony, InGaAs, LiDAR sensors, optical communications, free-space optics, OTDR, fiber optic sensing, semiconductor manufacturing, University of Sheffield spin-out, Ben White, photonics, 1550 nm sensors, eye-safe LiDAR, high-sensitivity detectors, Noiseless APD, Aura sensors, sensor technology, autonomous vehicles, industrial automation, defense technology, fabless semiconductor.