Merck KGaA and Plastic Logic GmbH of Dresden have announced plans to jointly develop Merck’s organic semiconductors for Plastic Logic’s displays. Production and launch are planned for 2011.

Merck recently added laboratories to its chemical research site, Chilworth Technical Center in Southampton, UK, to intensify and accelerate display-material developments based on plastic electronics.

As part of the joint project, Plastic Logic has invested in manufacturing equipment to accelerate the introduction of Merck's lisicon materials in mass production.

Merck’s functional materials are used in the manufacturing process of the flexible ePaper displays contained in Plastic Logic’s first consumer product, QUE proReader, which was presented at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show in January.

The lisicon materials will enable enhanced device performance and simplify the manufacturing process for ePaper displays.

For more information, visit:  www.plasticlogic.com