FAQ

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Find answers to common questions about DP Patterning's dry phase patterning technology, production capabilities, sustainability advantages and how we support partners from concept to scalable manufacturing.

    Technology

    • Conventional flexible circuit manufacturing often relies on wet chemical etching and multiple process steps. DP Patterning uses a mechanical dry phase approach designed to simplify production, improve material efficiency and support more sustainable manufacturing.

    • DP Patterning (DPP) is a manufacturing company specializing in a unique, mechanical and roll-to-roll patterning process for flexible electronics. The technology enables sustainable, high‑volume production of patterned metal layers without chemicals or water.

    • We primarily pattern aluminium, the most sustainable metal choice, and copper‑clad aluminium (CCA). These materials are production‑ready today and well suited for large‑scale flexible electronics.The process itself can pattern any flexible material from Carbon, Cu, CuNi, ITO to plastics, paper and mutlimaterial combinations that are not possible to pattern in one step in other conventional processes.

    • DP Patterning supports a wide range of flexible substrates, including PET, PI, PEN, PES, PC and paper, typically in thicknesses from 20–125 µm, depending on application and resolution needs.

    • Our standard process achieves line widths down to 300 µm with gaps down to 100 µm, depending on material selection and substrate thickness.

    • The technology is ideal for large‑area, high‑volume, single‑layer flexible electronics, such as connectivity solutions, automotive applications, industrial systems and other cost‑ and sustainability‑driven applications.

    • The current max width is 410 mm. Standard formats include lengths up to 1 500 mm, with extended lengths available for repeating or continuous designs.

    • Connectivity & Smart Systems, Consumer Electronics, Automotive, Industrial Solutions, HealthTech, Aerospace & Defence — essentially anywhere flexible electronics are applied.

    Manufacturing

    • We support everything from pilot projects to full‑scale industrial production, ranging from single sheets to millions of square meters (m² ).

    • Yes. DP Patterning can support custom layouts and product-specific geometries depending on the technical requirements, material stack and production setup.

    • The process can reduce production complexity, improve material utilization and lower dependency on chemical processing compared with conventional methods.

    • Our standard range is from sputtered <1 µm to 30 µm.

    • DP Patterning specializes in patterning and offers a complete solution including assembly, oxidation protection (OSP), solder resist, and other surface treatments.

    • DP Patterning patterns conductive circuits in a single step, eliminating the complexity of conventional multi-step technologies while lowering costs and improving yield.

    • Typical lead times for pilot projects are 2–4 weeks. Series production lead times depend on application complexity, materials and qualification requirements.

    • DP Patterning's production and headquarters are located in Sweden, placing us at the heart of Europe's advanced manufacturing ecosystem.
      Manufacturing in Europe ensures high quality standards, reliable supply chains, strong IP protection and compliance with strict environmental regulations.
      As we scale globally, our production strategy also includes the possibility of establishing regional microplants close to key customer markets. This approach is designed to shorten lead times, reduce transportation emissions and strengthen supply chain resilience while maintaining the same high manufacturing standards.

    Applications

    • Potential industries include automotive, medical technology, industrial electronics, consumer electronics, energy, telecom and other sectors where flexible, lightweight and efficient electronic structures are needed.

    Sustainability

    • The dry phase process can reduce the need for wet chemical etching, lower material waste and simplify production flows. This can contribute to a more resource-efficient manufacturing process.

    • Yes. One of the key advantages is the reduced dependency on traditional chemical etching steps, helping create a cleaner and more efficient production approach.

    • Compared to conventional etching, DP Patterning’s process can reduce CO₂ emissions and energy consumption by up to 98 %. It is water‑free, chemical‑free, generates minimal waste and supports material recycling.

    Commercial & Collaboration

    • The best first step is to book a call with the DP Patterning team. From there, the team can review the application, technical requirements and potential production route.

    • No. DP Patterning operates as a manufacturing partner and builds and runs its own proprietary equipment to ensure process control, quality and scalability.

    • Tier 1, Tier 2, OEM and EMS accross industries

    • Due to non‑disclosure agreements with global customers, reference names cannot be disclosed.

    • Yes. We offer samples for qualified projects and customer evaluations. Since every application has unique technical requirements, we first discuss your needs regarding design, materials, performance and intended use. Based on this, we can recommend the most suitable solution and provide relevant samples whenever possible.

      Please contact our team to discuss your application and sample requirements, or submit a Sample Request.

    Have a question that is not answered here?

    Talk to our team about your application, material requirements or production goals.