FlexMatters is the portal for information, news and opportunities in the manufacturing of flexible displays, electronics and photovoltaics.

In the next decade a new industry will emerge that will manufacture optical and electronic devices on flexible plastic substrates.  This new industry will produce flexible versions of current devices such as flat panel displays, that are now made on rigid substrates.  It will also make possible entirely new products such as electrically tunable eyewear and electronic fabrics. Ohio's research and industrial strengths in polymers, liquid crystals and advanced materials such as flexible graphite thermal management films make it a natural home for this new industry.  Flexmatters combines the innovative and entrepreneurial talent in our region that will be required to build and sustain this industry. 
Three focused research and commercialization projects, with a total of nearly $50M in state, industrial and academic support have joined the Flexmatters initiative:

Commercialization of Functional Polyimide Films and Nanocomposites:  Led by the University of Akron this project targets the market applications of polyimides. It is an extension of the Center for Multifunctional Polymer Nanomaterials and Devices (CMPND), a 2005 Wright Center of Innovation. Polyimides (PIs) are high performance polymers with a wide range of properties that can be easily adapted to withstand extreme thermal, electrical, and mechanical environments.

Development and Commercialization of Graphite Nanocomposites for the Next Generation of Electronic Devices: Led by Graftech International this project will develop graphite-based nanocomposites for improved thermal and electrical conductivity. The project will strengthen Ohio's presence in the lightweight, high performance electronic device market and make it more cost effective.

Flexible Liquid Crystal Film Manufacturing Alliance: Led by Kent Displays this project will develop specialized flexible liquid crystal displays and liquid crystal eyewear. The grant will support the development of two roll-to-roll processing lines of liquid crystal film, one for flexible displays such as credit cards, wrist watches, and ID tags, and a separate line for eyewear.

Through Flexmatters the partners will work together to build a new manufacturing infrastructure, supporting local companies and attracting new companies to the region.

FlexMatters Partners include: Kent State University, Kent Displays, AlphaMicron, University of Akron, CMPND, NorTech, the Fund for Our Economic Future, GrafTech International, Sheldahl, Center for Photochemical Sciences at Bowling Green State University, Akron Polymer Systems, and the Functional Polymides Center at University of Akron.