Brussels – The European Commission approved a 211 million euro state aid package provided by Italy for the development of photonic optical transceivers based on graphene by CamGraPhIC, an Italian SME. The aid, in the form of direct grants, relates to a project to be carried out in Pisa, Tuscany, and Bergamo, Lombardy, and involves collaboration with universities and research and technology organizations.
Optical transceivers are devices used to send and receive data through light instead of electrons in chips. These chips can be used in different sectors, including automotive, telecommunication, aerospace, and defense. Replacement of the traditionally used silicon with graphene is expected to significantly improve the devices’ performance and efficiency.
The European Commission considers the measure “necessary and appropriate” to support the development of graphene-based photonic technology, thereby contributing to EU strategic objectives for research and development in the semiconductor sector. Furthermore, the Commission concluded that the aid would have an “incentive effect” as the beneficiary would not make the investment in the absence of public support. Finally, the measure is considered “proportionate” and therefore has no adverse effects on competition.
English version by the Translation Service of Withub
