By Marty McCarthy
May 17, 2023
Tech and Innovation News Editor, LinkedIn
An Australian printed electronics startup wants to help solve the world's semiconductor problem with a tiny 3D printer. China dominates the manufacuring of consumer electronics — while about 75% of global semiconductor manufacturing capacity is in China and East Asia — so when supply chain disruptions occur there, it can hurt electronic manufacturers all around the world. But Canberra-based Syenta hopes to change that, by 'democratising' electrical component manufacturing with its small 3D printers — the size of a coffee table — that are capable of printing metal and plastics.
Why is this a gamechanger in the world of 3D printing and electronic component manufacturing?
"Our printer is like a new kid on the block. It can work with metals like copper, gold, palladium, nickel and many others, which was a challenge before.
The real gamechanger is our speed and detail — we can print really fast and with great precision — something that was tough to do before. The method we use for printing is also highly energy efficient. Plus, our process is additive, so there is very little unused material left over after printing, which is great for the environment and cost savings".
